Arthroscopic Management for the Unstable Inferior Leaf of the Lateral Meniscus Anterior Horn and Associated Cysts through a Direct Inframeniscal Portal: A Retrospective Study.

Introduction: To investigate the clinical results of arthroscopic management for the unstable inferior leaf of the lateral meniscus anterior horn and associated cysts through an inframeniscal portal.

Methods: From March 2005 to October 2014, 64 patients with an unstable inferior leaf of the lateral meniscus anterior horn and associated cysts underwent arthroscopic management with an inframeniscal portal. The mean age of the patients was 36.9 years (range, 18 to 49 years). The mean follow-up period was 28 months (range, 24 to 44 months). Clinical results were assessed using physical examination, the Lysholm knee score, and postoperative magnetic resonance scanning.

Results: The median Lysholm score improved significantly at 1 year after surgery and at final follow-up. Magnetic resonance scanning at least one year after the operation revealed no recurrent meniscal tears or cysts. No reoperations were required after an average follow-up of 28 months. All patients reported significant symptomatic relief after the operation. They had full range of motion at three months and returned to normal activities and sports one year after surgery.

Conclusion: The direct inframeniscal portal can provide an effective approach to manage lesions in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus with predictable clinical outcomes.