Factors Affecting Late Results after Meniscectomy

¹ From the University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City

Meniscectomy has frequently been performed on the assumption that the absence of a meniscus has little effect on joint function. Statistical analysis of data obtained from the histories, physical examinations, and roentgenographic and electrogoniometric studies of ninety-nine patients with a mean follow-up of 17.5 years after meniscectomy revealed a high incidence of poor results, degenerative arthritis, ligamentous laxity, and decreased stance-phase flexion. A meniscus should be removed only when it is definitely abnormal.

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