Autologous Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix–Augmented Repair for Parameniscal Cysts: Surgical Technique

Abstract

Parameniscal cysts are defined as an internal disorder of the knee joint. It is known that parameniscal cysts are associated with horizontal meniscal tears that could lead to the collection of synovial fluid within the cyst. Despite the treatment of meniscal tears, cyst recurrence is still an issue that needs to be addressed. In this regard, there has been an increasing interest in the use of biologic agents to enhance the vascularity and healing of the meniscus. Preliminary results for biologic therapeutic agents, such as growth factors, bone marrow, and aspirate concentrate, have been encouraging. However, these options are more demanding in regards to time, financial burden, resources, and so on. Autologous platelet-rich plasma is readily available, easy to use, affordable, and minimally invasive. This Technical Note will describe a step-by-step and reproducible technique for the harvesting, preparation, and use of an autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix used to augment the healing of meniscal repairs.

Arthroscopic Intrameniscal Decompression for the Treatment of Lateral Meniscal Cysts

“…Because cysts are frequently located in the vascular zone and the parameniscal region in cases of horizontal tears, efforts to perform minimized meniscectomy are required to avoid sequalae such as degenerative arthritis. 8 , 9 …”

The use of autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix combined with meniscal repair in the treatment of parameniscal cyst: clinical results and cyst recurrence after 2-year of follow up

“…The cyst is evacuated. The autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix membrane is located in the outer layer of the lateral meniscus and then sutured side-to-side to the adjacent capsule by adsorbable suture [ 15 ] (Fig. 3 ).…”

Ten years of injectable platelet‐rich fibrin

“…84 In 2021, Screpis and colleagues utilized PRF to repair parameniscal cysts, describing their surgical technique. 85 In 2022, Narayanaswamy and Sha described a reproducible and simple way to harvest PRF and create and use a PRF clot, along with detailed instructions on how to integrate the clot with a meniscal repair arthroscopically. 86 Therefore, although studies remain in their infancy, various research groups have demonstrated promising results utilizing i-PRF for joint injections (Figure 15, Figure S1: QR Code 10 ).…”

“…created a method to utilize PRF for meniscus tear repair 84 . In 2021, Screpis and colleagues utilized PRF to repair parameniscal cysts, describing their surgical technique 85 . In 2022, Narayanaswamy and Sha described a reproducible and simple way to harvest PRF and create and use a PRF clot, along with detailed instructions on how to integrate the clot with a meniscal repair arthroscopically 86 .…”