Objective International Knee Documentation Committee Score Research Articles

Allograft versus autograft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: an up-to-date meta-analysis of prospective studies

Although a large number of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are performed annually, there remains a considerable amount of controversy over whether an autograft or an allograft should be used. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the clinical outcomes of allograft and autograft in primary ACL reconstruction. The authors systematically searched electronic databases to identify prospective studies which compared allografts with autografts for primary ACL reconstruction. The results of the eligible studies were analysed in terms of instrumented laxity measurements, Lachman test, Pivot Shift test, objective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Scores, Lysholm Scores, Tegner Scores, and clinical failures. Study quality was assessed and relevant data were extracted independently by two reviewers. A random effect model was used to pool the data. Statistical heterogeneity between trials was evaluated by the chi-square and I-square tests. Nine studies, with 410 patients in the autograft and 408 patients in the allograft group, met the inclusion criteria. Five studies compared bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) grafts, and four compared soft-tissue grafts. Four studies were randomized controlled trials, and five were prospective cohort studies. The results of the meta-analysis showed that there were no significant differences between allograft and autograft on all the outcomes in terms of instrumented laxity measurements (P=0.59), Lachman test (P=0.41), Pivot Shift test (P=0.88), objective IKDC Scores (P=0.87), Lysholm Scores (P=0.79), Tegner Scores (P=0.06), and clinical failures (P=0.68). These findings were still robust during the sensitivity analysis. However, a subgroup analysis of Tegner scores by involving only BPTB grafts showed a statistical difference in favour of autografts (P=0.005). There was insufficient evidence to identify which of the two types of grafts was significantly better for ACL reconstruction, though the subgroup analysis indicated that reconstruction with BPTB autograft might allow patients to return to higher levels of activity in comparison with BPTB allograft. More high-quality randomized controlled trials with specified age and activity level are highly required before drawing a reliable conclusion.

Single-bundle versus double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: an up-to-date meta-analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the results of arthroscopic single-bundle and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. We systematically searched electronic databases to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which arthroscopic single-bundle was compared with double-bundle for ACL reconstruction. The search strategy followed the requirements of the Cochrane Library Handbook. The outcomes of these studies were analysed in terms of graft failures, Lysholm score, negative pivot-shift test, KT1000 arthrometer measurements, knee extensor and flexor peak torques, knee extension and flexion deficit, and subjective and objective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) final score. Methodological quality was assessed and data were extracted independently. Standard mean difference (SMD) or odds ratio (OR) with 95 % confidence interval (CI) was calculated by a fixed effects or random effects model. Heterogeneity across the studies was assessed with the I-square and chi-square statistic. Forest plots were also generated. We identified 17 RCTs comprising 1,381 patients who were treated by arthroscopic single-bundle versus double-bundle ACL reconstruction. The results of meta-analysis of these studies showed that arthroscopic double-bundle reconstruction was associated with a lower risk of graft failures (P=0.002) and a lower rate of positive pivot-shift test (P<0.0001). Compared with single-bundle reconstruction, double-bundle reconstruction had a lower KT1000 arthrometer measurement (P<0.00001), a lower knee extension deficit (P=0.006) and a higher subjective IKDC score (P=0.03). There was no statistically significant difference between single-bundle and double-bundle reconstruction in Lysholm score (P=0.91), knee extensor peak torques (P=0.97), knee flexor peak torques (P=0.96), knee flexion deficit (P=0.30) and objective IKDC score (P=0.18). Considering the more favourable outcomes of graft failures, knee joint stability and knee joint function in double-bundle reconstruction, we concluded that arthroscopic double-bundle reconstruction should be considered as the primary treatment in ACL reconstruction.

Arthroscopic Collagen Meniscus Implantation for Partial Lateral Meniscal Defects

Background: Loss of knee meniscal tissue often leads to increased pain and decreased function. Hypothesis: At a minimum 2-year follow-up, patients receiving a lateral collagen meniscus implant (CMI) would show improved knee function and decreased pain compared with their preoperative status. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Twenty-four patients with irreparable lateral meniscal tears (n = 7) or previous partial lateral meniscectomy (n = 17) underwent arthroscopic lateral collagen meniscus implantation. Clinical evaluation was performed preoperatively, at 6 months, and at a minimum 2-year follow-up with Lysholm, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Tegner, objective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), and EuroQol 5 dimensions (EQ-5D) scores. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation was performed preoperatively and at final follow-up using the modified Yulish score for cartilage and the Genovese score for implant size and signal intensity. Results: All clinical scores significantly improved from preoperative evaluation to final follow-up. Average Lysholm scores improved from 64.0 ± 16.2 to 92.7 ± 13.8 (P < .0001), VAS for pain from 55.2 ± 29.4 to 19.5 ± 25.6 (P < .0001), Tegner from 3 (interquartile range, 2-4) to 5 (interquartile range, 4-7) (P = .0062), objective IKDC from 6A, 14B, 4C to 20A, 3B, 1D (P = .0002), and EQ-5D from 0.58 ± 0.28 to 0.89 ± 0.14 (P < .0001). Good to excellent (A + B) objective IKDC scores improved from 83% preoperatively to 96% at 2-year follow-up. The Tegner index (the percentage of the lost activity level that was regained as a result of the treatment intervention) was 47% at 6-month follow-up and 79% at 2-year follow-up: this improvement was statistically significant (P = .0062). The MRI evaluations for tibial and femoral modified Yulish scores for cartilage remained similar over the course of the study; 87.5% of implants were reduced in size, and in 3 cases (12.5%), they were completely resorbed; 50% of the implants had a slightly hyperintense signal (relative to the normal meniscus), and signal intensity changes suggested that full maturation had occurred in 37.5% at final follow-up (based on the Genovese scores). Conclusion: The lateral CMI demonstrated that it was safe in this population study, with decreased pain and improved knee function in 96% of patients with excellent/good Lysholm results in 87% of patients at a minimum 2-year follow-up. The MRI scans demonstrated a decreased implant size relative to a normal meniscus.

Outcomes of an Anatomic Posterolateral Knee Reconstruction

Chronic posterolateral knee injuries often result in substantial patient morbidity and functional instability. The clinical stability and functional outcomes following anatomic reconstructions in patients with a chronic posterolateral knee injury have not been determined, to our knowledge. A two-center outcomes study of sixty-four patients with grade-3 chronic posterolateral instability was performed. The patients were evaluated subjectively with the modified Cincinnati and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores and objectively with the IKDC objective score. Eighteen patients had an isolated posterolateral knee reconstruction, and forty-six patients underwent a single-stage multiple-ligament reconstruction that included reconstruction of one or both cruciate ligaments along with the posterolateral knee reconstruction. The average duration of follow-up was 4.3 years. The fifty-four patients who were available for follow-up had an average total Cincinnati score of 65.7 points. A significant improvement was found between the preoperative and postoperative IKDC objective scores for varus opening at 20°, external rotation at 30°, reverse pivot shift, and single-leg hop. An anatomic posterolateral reconstruction resulted in improved clinical outcomes and objective stability for patients with a grade-3 posterolateral knee injury.

Prospective Long-Term Outcomes of the Medial Collagen Meniscus Implant Versus Partial Medial Meniscectomy

Background: Loss of meniscal tissue can be responsible for increased pain and decreased function. Hypothesis: At a minimum 10-year follow-up, patients receiving a medial collagen meniscus implant (MCMI) would show better clinical, radiological, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes than patients treated with partial medial meniscectomy (PMM). Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence 2. Methods: Thirty-three nonconsecutive patients (men; mean age, 40 years) with meniscal injuries were enrolled in the study to receive MCMI or to serve as a control patient treated with PMM. The choice of treatment was decided by the patient. All patients were clinically evaluated at time 0 and at 5 years and a minimum of 10 years after surgery (mean follow-up, 133 months) by Lysholm, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, objective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee form, and Tegner activity level scores. The SF-36 score was performed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Bilateral weightbearing radiographs were completed before the index surgery and at final follow-up. Minimum 10-year follow-up MRI images were compared with preoperative MRI images by means of the Yulish score. The Genovese score was also used to evalute MCMI MRI survivorship. Results: The MCMI group, compared with the PMM one, showed significantly lower VAS for pain (1.2 ± 0.9 vs 3.3 ± 1.8; P = .004) and higher objective IKDC (7A and 10B for MCMI, 4B and 12C for PMM; P = .0001), Teger index (75 ± 27.5 vs 50 ± 11.67; P = .026), and SF-36 (53.9 ± 4.0 vs 44.1 ± 9.2; P = .026 for Physical Health Index; 54.7 ± 3.8 vs 43.8 ± 6.5; P = .004 for Mental Health Index) scores. Radiographic evaluation showed significantly less medial joint space narrowing in the MCMI group than in the PMM group (0.48 ± 0.63 mm vs 2.13 ± 0.79 mm; P = .0003). No significant differences between groups were reported regarding Lysholm (P = .062) and Yulish (P = .122) scores. Genovese score remained constant between 5 and 10 years after surgery (P = .5). The MRI evaluation of the MCMI patients revealed 11 cases of myxoid degeneration signal: 4 had a normal signal with reduced size, and 2 had no recognizable implant. Conclusion: Pain, activity level, and radiological outcomes are significantly improved with use of the MCMI at a minimum 10-year follow-up compared with PMM alone. Randomized controlled trials on a larger population are necessary to confirm MCMI benefits at long term.

Outcome of surgery for recurrent patellar dislocation based on the distance of the tibial tuberosity to the trochlear groove

We evaluated the outcome in a series of patients with recurrent patellar dislocation who had either medial transfer of the tibial tuberosity and lateral release or an isolated lateral release as the primary treatment. The decision to use one or other procedure was based on a pre-operative distance between the tibial tuberosity to the trochlear groove (TTTG) of less than 10 mm to include the tibial tuberosity transfer in addition to the lateral release. Between April 2002 and December 2006, 49 patients (63 knees) underwent one of these procedures. A total of 35 patients (46 knees) was evaluated at a mean of 38 months (13 to 71) post-operatively. Medial transfer of the tibial tuberosity was performed in 33 knees and isolated lateral release in the remaining 13. Evaluation included the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Kujala and the Short-form 36 scores. From the tibial tuberosity group 23 knees also underwent radiological examination at follow-up. There were further episodes of patellar dislocation in six of the 46 knees available for review. Further dislocation was noted in five of 33 knees (15.2%) in the tibial tuberosity transfer group and in one of 13 knees (7.7%) in the lateral release group. The mean subjective IKDC score was 80.4 (sd 11.6), the mean Kujala score 88 (sd 8.2) and the mean objective IKDC score was 79% normal and 21% nearly normal. The mean post-operative TTTG distance in the tibial tuberosity transfer group was 8.9 mm (3.2 to 15.7) compared with the mean pre-operative value of 16.8 mm (12.2 to 24.4).

A Prospective Outcomes Study of Meniscal Allograft Transplantation

Background: Symptomatic early-onset chondromalacia often develops after a meniscectomy in the affected knee compartment. The role of meniscal transplantation in reducing pain and improving function in patients with prior ipsilateral meniscectomy is still being defined. Hypothesis: Patients with symptomatic early-onset chondromalacia of the knee after ipsilateral meniscectomy will have improved clinical outcomes after meniscal transplantation. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: All patients who underwent meniscal allograft transplantation between July 2003 and December 2006 were prospectively followed. The indications for surgery were unicompartmental knee pain and postactivity effusions after total or near-total meniscectomy in patients with closed physes. High-field magnetic resonance imaging (1.5-T or 3-T magnets) was used to assess the articular cartilage of the affected compartment. The meniscal transplantations were performed with an arthroscopically assisted technique. Modified Cincinnati knee and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective and IKDC objective outcome scores were obtained on all patients preoperatively and postoperatively to evaluate patients’ outcomes. Results: Forty patients with an average age of 25 years and a body mass index of 25.4 were included. After an average final follow-up of 2.5 years, IKDC subjective scores increased significantly from 54.5 to 72.0 (P < .001). Modified Cincinnati knee scores increased from 55.2 to 75.3 (P < .001). The preoperative IKDC objective scores measuring effusion improved significantly from 6 A (normal), 29 B (nearly normal), and 5 C (abnormal), when compared with the postoperative scores of 33 A (normal) and 1 B (nearly normal) (P < .01). Five patients sustained tears of their meniscal transplants and underwent partial meniscectomies of the transplant graft. Conclusion: The results confirm that meniscal transplantation significantly reduces pain, decreases activity-related effusions, and improves function in patients with prior meniscectomy; however, the long-term chondroprotective effects remain unknown.

Outcomes of an Anatomic Posterolateral Knee Reconstruction

Chronic posterolateral knee injuries often result in substantial patient morbidity and functional instability. The clinical stability and functional outcomes following anatomic reconstructions in patients with a chronic posterolateral knee injury have not been determined, to our knowledge. A two-center outcomes study of sixty-four patients with grade-3 chronic posterolateral instability was performed. The patients were evaluated subjectively with the modified Cincinnati and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores and objectively with the IKDC objective score. Eighteen patients had an isolated posterolateral knee reconstruction, and forty-six patients underwent a single-stage multiple-ligament reconstruction that included reconstruction of one or both cruciate ligaments along with the posterolateral knee reconstruction. The average duration of follow-up was 4.3 years. The fifty-four patients who were available for follow-up had an average total Cincinnati score of 65.7 points. A significant improvement was found between the preoperative and postoperative IKDC objective scores for varus opening at 20 degrees, external rotation at 30 degrees, reverse pivot shift, and single-leg hop. An anatomic posterolateral reconstruction resulted in improved clinical outcomes and objective stability for patients with a grade-3 posterolateral knee injury.

Comparison between Single- and Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background Double-bundle ACL reconstruction popularity is increasing with the aim to reproduce native ACL anatomy and improve ACL reconstruction outcome. However, to date, only a few randomized clinical studies have been published. Purpose The aim of this study was to prospectively compare the clinical results of single- and double-bundle ACL reconstruction. Study Design Randomized controlled clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods Seventy patients with a chronic unilateral ACL rupture who underwent arthroscopically assisted ACL reconstruction using a hamstring graft were randomized to receive a single- (SB) or double-bundle (DB) reconstruction. Both groups were comparable with regard to preoperative data. A double-incision surgical technique was adopted in both groups. The graft was fixed by looping the hamstring tendons around a bony (DB) or a metallic (SB) bridge on the tibial side and with interference screws reinforced with a staple on the femur. The same rehabilitation protocol was adopted. Outcome assessment was performed by a blinded, independent observer using the visual analog scale (VAS) score, the new International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) form, the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and KT-1000 arthrometer evaluation. Results All the patients reached a minimum follow-up of 2 years. No differences between the 2 groups were observed in terms of KOOS and IKDC subjective score. A statistically significant difference in favor of the DB group was found with the VAS (P < .03). The objective IKDC final scores showed statistically significantly more “normal knees” in the DB group than in the SB group (P = .03). There was 1 stability failure in the DB group and 3 in the SB group. The KT-1000 arthrometer data showed a statistically significant decrease in the average anterior tibial translation in the DB group (1.2 mm DB vs 2.1 mm SB; P < .03). The incidence of a residual pivot-shift glide was 14% in DB and 26% in SB (P = .08). Conclusion In the 2-year minimum follow-up, DB ACL reconstructions showed better VAS, anterior knee laxity, and final objective IKDC scores than SB. However, longer follow-up and accurate instrumented in vivo rotational stability assessment are needed.

Arthroscopic Fixation of Displaced Tibial Eminence Fractures: A New Growth Plate–Sparing Method

Fractures of the tibial eminence can be treated arthroscopically. Numerous ways to attach an anterior cruciate ligament avulsion from the tibial eminence have been designed. This report describes a new physis-sparing reduction and fixation technique using an anchor passing nonabsorbable braided sutures through the substance of the anterior cruciate ligament, holding the avulsed bone fragment by tying a locking knot. This study was performed to evaluate a consecutive group of patients who underwent reduction and fixation of tibial avulsion fractures fixed with an anchor with sutures. The evaluation was performed by use of objective and subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, KT-1000 measurement (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA), Lachman and pivot-shift tests, and Lysholm score. The global IKDC objective score was normal (A) in 4 knees and nearly normal (B) in 3, without extension or flexion limitations. The mean IKDC subjective score was 92 out of 100 (range, 86 to 98). The results of the anterior drawer, Lachman, and pivot-shift tests were negative. The mean Lysholm score improved from 29 to 94. The mean side-to-side difference in anterior tibial translation was 2 mm (range, 1 to 3 mm). Arthroscopic stabilization by use of an anchor with sutures was possible in all cases of tibial spine fracture. We were able to obtain excellent results in this series using this fixation method. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

The Results of Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation with a Concomitant Injury

Purpose: To evaluate the results of autologous chondrocyte implantation with a concomitant injury. Materials and Methods: Sixty-seven chondral defects (39 cases, 36 patients), which were treated with autologous chondrocyte implantation, were analyzed with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The cases were divided into the following five groups: 4 cases of a single chondral defect (group I), 3 cases of multiple chondral defects (group II), 5 cases of osteochondritis dissecans (group III), 9 cases of a single chondral defect with a concomitant injury (group IV), and 18 cases of multiple chondral defects with a concomitant injury (group V). The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective and objective scores and the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) functional evaluation system. Arthroscopic examinations were performed on 12 cases and 21 chondral defects. Results: The mean IKDC subjective score was 39.8 preoperatively, which improved to 64.1 postoperatively, and the IKDC objective score was C in 54% and D in 46%, which improved to A in 74%, B in 23% and C in 3%. The ICRS functional evaluation system was III in 82% of cases, and IV in 18% preoperatively, which improved to I in 15% and II in 85%, postoperatively. At the arthroscopic evaluation, the results of the ICRS system were I in 9%, II in 67%, and III in 24%. There was no significant difference between the single chondral defect and chondral defects with a concomitant injury. Conclusion: In the treatment of the multiple chondral defects with a concomitant injury, autologous chondrocyte implantation produced similar excellent clinical results to those of a single chondral defect.

Two to nineteen years follow-up of arthroscopic meniscal repair using the outside-in technique: a retrospective study

To perform a long-term follow-up evaluation of the outside-in technique of arthroscopic meniscal repair. Retrospective study. Between the years 1986 and 2002, 93 cases of arthroscopic meniscal repair using the outside-in technique have been operated by the senior author (F.L.). Forty-one patients were available for the follow-up evaluation with a mean follow-up of 11.71 years. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the modified Lysholm score, the SF-36 (short form 36) health survey score, a visual analogue scale (VAS) for assessment of patients' satisfaction and another VAS for assessment of patients' pain were used retrospectively to evaluate the patients. We also used the Kellgren and Lawrence (K/L) classification of osteoarthritis to evaluate the preoperative X-rays and the X-rays done at the time of the follow-up evaluation. Failure was defined as having a meniscectomy procedure post-operatively. From the 93 patients, 52 could not be retrieved for the follow-up evaluation, while 41 were available for it; 36 patients were clinically successful and 5 were considered as failure. Thirty-six patients were classified as grade "A" in the objective IKDC score, mean modified Lysholm score was 87.29 (SD 16.43), while mean SF-36 score was 85.73 (SD 14.17). The results of the VAS for operation satisfaction ranging from -10 to +10 revealed that the mean of the answers was 8.05 (SD 2.99). The results of the VAS for pain ranging from 0 to 10 revealed that the mean of the patients' pain at the time of the follow-up evaluation was 1.8 (SD 2.42). Twenty out of 24 (only 24 preoperative X-rays were available) were classified as having no osteoarthritis pre-operatively, whereas only 12 out of the 41 patients were classified as having no osteoarthritis (normal) at the time of the follow-up evaluation according to the K/L classification which indicates progression of osteoarthritis. No complications related to the outside-in arthroscopic meniscal repair procedure were reported. We conclude that arthroscopic meniscal repair using the outside-in technique is a safe surgical procedure with a good clinical outcome.

Revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Three- to nine-year follow-up

With the increasing number of primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions, revisions are more frequent. The literature quotes inferior results for revision cases when compared with primary ACL reconstruction. The purpose of the study was to review our institution's experience with revision ACL reconstruction. Retrospective case series. Thirty-five revision cases were performed between 1993 and 1999. Twenty-nine were available for follow-up. Subjective scores were calculated for Lysholm, Tegner, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) forms. Objective IKDC scores were determined. KT-1000 measurements were performed as well as isokinetic strength testing of quadriceps and hamstrings. Plain film radiographs were obtained to assess degenerative changes. The average patient age at time of revision was 30.2 years, the average time to revision was 56 months, the follow-up from last revision was 67 months. Twenty-two patients had bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) allograft, 6 had contralateral BPTB autograft, and 1 patient had Achilles allograft. Overall, KT-1000 measurement showed an average of 2.78 mm side-to-side difference of displacement. The allograft versus the autograft group was 3.21 mm versus 1.33 mm, respectively. Prerevision data were unavailable. However, all patients had a positive pivot-shift test before revision. Average postrevision Lysholm, Tegner, and subjective IKDC scores were 86.6, 11.86, and 85.86, respectively. Concerning the IKDC objective scores, 15 patients had an A score, 8 had a B score, and 4 had a C score. All 29 patients available for follow-up reported that they would have the surgery again. The average strength of quadriceps and hamstrings ranged from 82% to 88% of uninvolved side. This study provides long-term follow-up with good results for revision ACL reconstruction. Attention to principles when performing revision ACL surgery is critical to provide satisfactory results. Level IV.

Meniscal repair using the FasT-Fix all-inside meniscal repair device

We performed a prospective study of meniscal repair using a new all-inside suture meniscal repair device to evaluate its clinical efficacy. Prospective case series. The results of 42 meniscal tears in 37 patients who underwent meniscal repair using the FasT-Fix device (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA) were prospectively evaluated. All cases were performed by 1 surgeon (A.A.S.). Preoperative and follow-up evaluation was performed using the objective and subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) criteria as well as Lysholm functional questionnaires. Statistical significance was determined to be P < .05 based on a 2-tailed t test. Relook arthroscopy was performed in 8 patients (9 repairs). Any patient who had a hybrid repair was excluded. The patient population studied, 37 patients comprising 42 meniscal repairs, had an average age of 27 years (range, 13 to 48 years), and an average follow-up of 24.3 months (range, 22 to 27 months). There were 20 male and 18 female patients with 23 medial and 9 lateral repairs; 5 patients had both menisci repaired. All patients had tears in Cooper radial zones 1 and 2 and, thus, had a peripheral meniscal rim of at least 2 mm. All tears were predominantly in the middle and posterior third of the meniscus and 8 tears extended into the posteriormost aspect of the anterior third of the meniscus. An average of 2.8 suture devices was used (range, 1 to 5), predominantly in a vertical or vertical oblique mattress configuration. Forty-two percent were isolated meniscal injuries and 58% had a concurrent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Concomitant procedures were ACL reconstruction in 22, excision of loose body in 1, and excision of a large meniscal cyst in 1. Tear length averaged 2.9 cm (range, 1.5 to 4.5 cm). The success rate by objective IKDC score was 86% (73% normal, 13% nearly normal, and 14% abnormal). Of the 5 clinical failures, 3 were in the isolated group (80% success rate), and 2 were in the ACL group (91% success rate). Both the subjective IKDC and the Lysholm scores statistically improved (IKDC average, 59 preoperative and 92 postoperative; Lysholm average, 69 preoperative and 94 postoperative). There were 8 relook arthroscopies; 5 for failures and 3 for other procedures at which time complete healing was noted. In no case was there articular scuffing from the knots. Removal of a device at the time of surgery was necessary in 5 instances for failure of engagement of the T-Fix bar. An additional FasT-Fix device was then inserted without difficulty in each case. No case of postoperative extra-articular or intra-articular complications was encountered. The FasT-Fix suture device affords an all-inside method of meniscal repair using a strong vertical or horizontal mattress suture configuration and appears to be a safe and effective technique for meniscal repair for tears with at least a 2-mm peripheral rim. It has a high success rate and low complication rate and has results comparable to classic suture repair techniques. Level IV.