Medial joint space narrowing progresses after pullout repair of medial meniscus posterior root tear

Purpose
The extent to which arthropathic changes progress after medial meniscus posterior root tear (MMPRT) repair remains controversial. This retrospective study assessed medial joint space (MJS) narrowing progression after pullout of repair for MMPRT and identified the correlating factors.

Methods
We included 56 patients who underwent pullout of repair for MMPRT. The MJS of the bilateral knees was assessed with radiography using the fixed-flexion view. A second-look arthroscopy was performed one year post-operatively for all patients. The baseline characteristics, clinical scores, Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade, and medial meniscus extrusion (MME) were identified. Statistical comparisons and correlation analyses were conducted.

Results
The MJS narrowing width was significantly larger in MMPRT knees than in contralateral knees (0.51 +/- 0.85 mm vs. 0.09 +/- 0.49 mm, p < 0.001). KL grade progression was observed in 23.2% (13/56) of patients. There was a significant difference between pre- and post-operative MME values, indicating MME progression (p < 0.001). Each clinical score showed significant improvement one year post-operatively (p < 0.001). Positive correlations were found between MJS narrowing and pre-operative MJS (coefficient = 0.510, p < 0.001), rate of change in MJS (coefficient = 0.929, p < 0.001), and increase in MME (Delta MME) (coefficient = 0.506, p < 0.001).

Conclusion
Knees that underwent pullout of repair for MMPRT showed progression of MJS narrowing by 0.51 mm at one year post-operatively, although clinical scores markedly improved. Correlating factors for MJS narrowing were pre-operative MJS, rate of change in MJS, and Delta MME. Preventing MME progression is essential for preventing arthropathic changes.