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Lateral Meniscus Transplantation

Surgical replacement of irreparably damaged or absent lateral meniscus with size-matched cadaveric allograft using bone bridge or bone plug fixation in young active patients with meniscectomy-related joint symptoms; aims to preserve cartilage, restore biomechanics, and delay early osteoarthritis progression in the lateral compartment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Lateral Meniscus Transplantation?

Lateral meniscus transplantation (LMT) is a meniscus-sparing surgery indicated for symptomatic lateral compartment after subtotal or total lateral meniscectomy, where the meniscus is irreparably damaged or surgically removed. The procedure addresses the consequences of meniscal deficiency: increased contact pressures, accelerated cartilage degeneration, and progressive osteoarthritis. Lateral meniscectomy generally has worse outcomes than medial meniscectomy due to the lateral compartment's reliance on meniscal congruity for load distribution.

Indications include young active patients (<50 years) with persistent pain, mechanical symptoms, or effusion after lateral meniscectomy; minimal cartilage damage (Outerbridge ≤II); intact or reconstructable ligaments (ACL); proper limb alignment (or correctable with osteotomy); BMI <35; and absence of generalized osteoarthritis. Contraindications: advanced osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade ≥3), inflammatory arthritis, joint instability, malalignment >5° varus.

Surgical technique uses bone bridge fixation (preferred for lateral meniscus due to closer roots; entire bone block from anterior to posterior horns is implanted in slot) or two-bone plug technique (separate plugs for anterior and posterior horns). Allograft is size-matched (within 5%) using MRI or X-ray templating. Outcomes at 10+ years show 75-85% survival with pain relief and improved function. Concomitant procedures include cartilage repair (MACI, microfracture), ligament reconstruction (ACL), and alignment osteotomy as needed.

Symptoms

Persistent lateral knee pain after meniscectomy
Lateral joint line tenderness
Recurrent knee swelling with activity
Mechanical symptoms (catching, giving way)
Decreased ability to play sports or activities
Limited weight-bearing tolerance
Knee effusion after activity

Risk Factors

Prior subtotal or total lateral meniscectomy
Young age (<50 years) at meniscectomy
Sports activities causing increased loading
Discoid lateral meniscus history (often requires extensive meniscectomy)
ACL injury with concomitant meniscectomy
Genetic predisposition to early OA
High BMI accelerating degeneration

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent lateral knee pain after meniscectomy
  • Recurrent swelling with activity
  • Mechanical symptoms in operated knee
  • Failed conservative treatment >3-6 months
  • Young patient considering joint preservation
  • Sports inability despite recovery from prior surgery
  • MRI showing meniscal deficiency with cartilage degeneration

Treatment Methods

01
Bone bridge meniscus allograft transplantation (preferred for lateral)
02
Two-bone plug technique alternative
03
Size matching using MRI or X-ray templating
04
Concomitant cartilage procedures (MACI, microfracture) if indicated
05
Concurrent ligament reconstruction (ACL) as needed
06
Alignment osteotomy for varus/valgus deformity
07
Postoperative protected weight-bearing 4-6 weeks, gradual return to sport 6-12 months

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.