Chondroprotective Effects of a Polycarbonate-Urethane Meniscal Implant: Semi-Quantitative Results in a Sheep Model

The menisci play a critical role in load-bearing and stability of the knee joint [1]. Damage or removal of the meniscus leads to alterations in the magnitude and distribution of stresses in the knee, which have been associated with degenerative osteoarthritis [2]. Clearly, there remains a need to develop means of protecting the articular cartilage following meniscal injury by either repairing or replacing the menisci. While allograft meniscal replacements can improve joint stability and function, they often provide little benefit in preventing osteoarthritic changes [3]. The development of an artificial meniscus that is available at the time of surgery in several sizes that can accommodate most patients would provide important therapeutic potential for treatment meniscal injury.