Meniscal repair with the RapidLoc meniscal repair device.

BACKGROUND The RapidLoc is an all-inside, self-adjusting, flexible meniscal repair device that combines a suture with an anchor component and, by using a reinforced sliding knot, allows for tightening to compress and hold the repaired meniscal segments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical success of the RapidLoc device. METHODS A prospective consecutive series of meniscal repairs performed with the RapidLoc device was studied. Lysholm, Tegner, Cincinnati, IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) activity scores, clinical examination findings, and adverse events were recorded on all patients. Associated procedures were recorded. An accelerated postoperative rehabilitation program was followed, independent of whether anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery was also performed. RESULTS A total of 32 patients underwent 32 meniscal repairs, with an average follow-up of 31 months (18 to 48 months). In all, 23 repairs were done in conjunction with ACL reconstruction, and 9 repairs were carried out in stable knees. Repairs were made to 25 medial menisci and 7 lateral menisci. Tears repaired consisted of peripheral longitudinal tears with an average length of 2 cm (range, 15 to 30 mm). Four failures (12.5%) were arthroscopically documented. Clinical success occurred in 87.5% at the time of last follow-up. At follow-up, mean Tegner score was 5.1 (2.8 preoperative), IKDC activity score was 3.1 (1.8 preoperative), Lysholm score was 93.6 (48.4 preoperative), and mean Cincinnati score was 88.1 (43.7 preoperative). The most common adverse event was cutting of the suture during RapidLoc insertion. One patient had excoriation and grooving of the medial femoral condyle associated with failed repair. Another patient developed a postoperative infection. CONCLUSIONS The early clinical success rate was 87.5% with the RapidLoc device. Chondral grooving was observed in a single case. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV, therapeutic case series.