A complete radial tear of the meniscus posterior root, which can effectively cause a state of total meniscectomy via loss of hoop tension, requires that the torn root be repaired. Several methods have been used to repair medial meniscus posterior root tears, most of which are based on a simple stitch technique that is known to have stitch-holding strength. We applied a modified version of the Mason-Allen stitch technique, which is recognized as a method for rotator cuff repair surgery because its locking effect overcomes the potential weakness of simple stitches. This article introduces the medial meniscus posterior root tears repair procedure based on a modified Mason-Allen stitch technique in which 2 strands (i.e., 1 simple horizontal and 1 simple vertical stitch) are used.S everal biomechanical studies have reported that medial meniscus posterior root tear (MMPRT) increases the contact surface and decreases peak pressure because of a loss of hoop tension after disruption of circumferential fibers, similar to the effects observed in knees subjected to total meniscectomy. 1 Fixation by restoring hoop tension is crucial to prevent degenerative changes. 1 Fixation is typically achieved using a simple stitch. 2-4 However, such stitches can result in poorer meniscal healing because of reduced holding strength. 5 In contrast, the modified Mason-Allen stitch technique can produce better meniscal healing because of the superior holding power conferred by its locking effect. 6 We herein introduce a method of MMPRT fixation using a modified version of the Mason-Allen stitch technique.
Surgical TechniqueGeneral arthroscopic examination is routinely performed via anterolateral (AL) and anteromedial (AM) portals; the arthroscope (Linvatec, Largo, FL) is introduced through the AL portal, and the working instruments through the AM portal. This position allows for excellent visualization of the posterior horn root detachment.First, if MMPRT is confirmed on arthroscopic examination, the superficial medial collateral ligament (MCL) is released to provide a sufficient working space. A 3-cm longitudinal skin incision is made at the anteromedial aspect of the proximal tibia, and superficial MCL release is achieved using a periosteum elevator directed toward the distal tibial side and performing periosteal stripping while preserving the proximal tibial attachment and deep MCL.Second, landmarks relevant to the insertion of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus, including the PCL insertion point, medial tibial spine, and articular margin of the posteromedial tibial plateau, should be identified by arthroscopy after superficial MCL release. A full-radius resector is used to remove fibrous tissue and identify the edge of the meniscus. Debridement of the torn meniscal edge is performed using a shaver (Linvatec).Third, a curette is inserted through the AM portal to create a bony bed at the insertion site.Fourth, a crescent-shaped suture hook (Linvatec) loaded with No. 1 polydioxanone (PDS) (Ethicon, Somerville, NJ) is then ...