Publication:

Comparison of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with physical therapy alone co existing meniscal tear and knee osteoarthritis

Background In patients with a meniscal tear and mild-to moderate osteoarthritis, we analyzed whether arthroscopic partial meniscectomy improve physical and functional outcomes more than physical therapy does.

Methods 52 patients had a meniscal tear as well as osteoarthritis confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging or radiography. Symptoms had persisted for more than 3 months despite conservative measures. Patients were allocated to Group A subjected to partial meniscectomy and postoperative physical therapy (n=26) or to Group B with physical therapy alone (n=26). The primary outcome measure was change on the physical-function scale of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) during the 6 months after randomization. A 12-month assessment was added to determine the stability of the result. Secondary outcomes were the pain score on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS).

Results At 6 months, the 2 groups did not differ in mean improvement in the WOMAC physical-function score, in decreases on the KOOS pain score. The results were similar at 12 months.

Conclusions In patients with a meniscal tear and mild-tomoderate osteoarthritis, both groups showed similar outcomes between arthroscopic meniscectomy and physical therapy.