The outcome of meniscal repair at the time of ACL reconstruction

The outcome of meniscal repair at the time of ACL reconstruction is significant better than during isolated meniscal surgery without knowing the cause of this. This study focused on the possible explanation by measuring the release of growth factors (that could stimulate healing) after both meniscectomy with or without ACL reconstruction. 

Only joint PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) was significant higher in surgery with ACL reconstruction compared to isolated meniscal surgery. PDGF is one of the first secreted growth factor after tissue injury. The increased level of PDGF after surgery with ACL reconstruction could play a role in the better outcome. However, until now no clinical data are available on the direct effect of growth factors on meniscus repair in human. > From: De Girolamo et al., Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc (2013) (Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to Springer.