New Generation Meniscus Fixator Devices

Meniscal repair techniques continue to rapidly evolve and expand as more surgical devices are developed and become available. The increasing demand for simplifying the repair of meniscal tears and a trend toward performing all-arthroscopic repairs has prompted the introduction of newer methods and multiple devices that present the clinician with a vast array of surgical options. In addition, case reports documenting morbidities associated with the use of several of the initial first generation fixator implants have raised concerns regarding these devices and prompted their redesign and improvement. More recently, all-arthroscopic suture-based devices that may increase repair site strength and further reduce the invasiveness of the repair procedure have been released. An update on the next generation meniscal repair techniques and devices is presented outlining and reviewing the current available procedures, including postoperative rehabilitation and preliminary results. Technical pearls and pitfalls, including optimal indications, are reviewed for several of the newest repair methods and potential future approaches to meniscal pathology are addressed.