Editorial Commentary: Older Age Is Not a Contraindication to Meniscal Repair

Abstract

Meniscal tears affect patients of all ages, with varying presentations, influence on function, and treatment requirements. Classic dogma suggests that older patients should be treated nonoperatively or offered meniscectomy when conservative treatment fails. However, recent data suggest improved subjective outcomes and reduced rates of degenerative change after meniscal repair, even in patients older than 40 years. Controversy exists regarding the comparative reoperation rates of meniscectomy and meniscal repair in the older cohort. Although higher levels of evidence are lacking, it is unlikely that chronological age should be the major driver of surgical decision making for meniscal repair. Patient-, joint-, limb-, and meniscus-specific factors, including physiological age, better guide the surgeon toward successful treatment.