A review of preclinical and clinical studies using synthetic materials for meniscus replacement

Curr Stem Cell Res Ther. 2013 Nov;8(6):438-43. doi: 10.2174/1574888x1130800061.

Abstract

The emerging field of tissue engineering holds the promise to use bio-materials for meniscus injury repair, namely scaffold or meniscus implant. Many implants have been studied and several studies have been conducted to verify the safety and quality of scaffolds. Preliminary data support the idea that synthetic implants can provide an alternative to menyscectomy helping to preserve the cartilage and preventing arthritis in patient with menisci injuries. However, the prevalence of postoperative complications varies within studies. Further investigations are required to evaluate the role of these materials in the clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arthritis / etiology
  • Arthritis / prevention & control*
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee*
  • Biocompatible Materials / adverse effects
  • Biocompatible Materials / therapeutic use*
  • Bioprosthesis
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Guided Tissue Regeneration
  • Humans
  • Menisci, Tibial / transplantation*
  • Models, Animal
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control*
  • Tibial Meniscus Injuries
  • Tissue Engineering
  • Tissue Scaffolds / adverse effects
  • Tissue Scaffolds / statistics & numerical data
  • Wounds and Injuries / complications
  • Wounds and Injuries / therapy*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials