The Fate of Meniscal Tears After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Abstract

Stable tears of both lateral and medial menisci remain asymptomatic at 2 to 6 years' follow-up if treated conservatively. Those requiring further surgery had de novo tears or tears that were asymptomatic before reinjury. Although repair may be of benefit for large flap or bucket-handle tears, it does not appear necessary for most tears and may increase the incidence of postoperative stiffness.