Delayed degradation of bioabsorbable meniscal fixators

A greater understanding of the functional importance of the meniscus has prompted a more aggressive approach to conserving meniscal tissue. Multiple treatment options exist when dealing with a tear of the meniscus. As the popularity of bioabsorbable implants in the orthopaedic armamentarium grows, concern exists as to the potential associated complications. We describe a case of the failure of a bioabsorbable meniscal fixator appropriately applied to a posterior medial meniscal tear with an associated injury of the anterior cruciate ligament. Moreover, the concern of implant retention secondary to delayed degradation and resultant potential for articular cartilage damage was present. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Vol 17, No 3 (March), 2001: pp E11–E11