Influence of medial meniscectomy on tibiofemoral joint space width

Abstract Objective : The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of partial medial meniscectomy on tibiofemoral joint space width (JSW). Design : Thirty-seven patients (mean age: 51 years), suffering from medial meniscal lesions, (post-traumatic ( n =22) or degenerative ( n =15)), and requiring arthroscopic partial meniscectomy, were enrolled in a prospective, controlled study. Bilateral weight-bearing radiographs in extended and flexed position were performed in the same Radiology Unit just before and 2 days after meniscectomy. During arthroscopy, the extent of meniscectomy was evaluated in percentage and medial chondropathy was quantified using the Societe Francaise d'Arthroscopie (SFA) scoring system (SFA score: 0–100). Medial chondropathy was absent or mild (mean SFA score: 8±13). Meniscectomy removed an average of 61% of the posterior third of the medial meniscus, 51% of the middle third and 22% of the anterior third. Radiographs, before and after meniscectomy, were read singly and were analyzed by a single reader unaware of patient identity and date of radiographs. Medial JSW was measured at the narrowest point of the medial compartment using a 0.1mm graduated magnifying glass. Results : Comparison of JSW before and after meniscectomy did not show any statistically significant difference (mm): 0.01±0.43 ( p =0.83) and −0.05±0.56 ( p =0.66) in the extended and flexed views, respectively. Conclusion : This preliminary study suggests that partial medial meniscectomy does not influence tibiofemoral JSW on weight-bearing X-rays. Consequently, joint space narrowing appearing after partial meniscectomy should lead to seeking postmeniscectomy cartilage degradation rather than being attributed to removal of the meniscus.