How to repair medial meniscal ramp lesions: A systematic review of surgical techniques

Abstract

Abstract Purpose to provide a comprehensive overview of all the surgical techniques published in the literature for repairing meniscal ramp lesions focusing on the technical aspects and the pros and cons of every procedure. Such lesions can be managed using various approaches, each of this with its specific advantages and disadvantages. Methods Pubmed Central, Scopus, and EMBASE databases were systematically reviewed according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis (PRISMA) guidelines for studies on surgical techniques for repairing meniscal ramp lesions through May 2023. Overall, 32 articles matched the selection criteria and were included in the study. Results Debridement alone may be sufficient for small stable meniscal ramp lesions but, for tears in the menisco‐capsular junction that affect the stability of the medial meniscus, it seems reasonable to repair it, even though the clinical results available in literature are contrasting. All‐inside sutures through anterior portals seems to be an effective solution for meniscal ramp lesions with MTL tears. All‐inside sutures through posteromedial portals are particularly useful for large meniscal ramp lesions, in which an inside‐out suture can also be performed. Conclusion Meniscal ramp lesions can be managed using various approaches, each of this with its specific advantages and disadvantages. Further research is required to determine the optimal technique that can be considered as the gold standard and can provide the better results. Level of Evidence Level III, systematic review.

Keywords

• medial meniscus
• meniscus repair
• ramp lesion