Here are eight things to know:
1. The new device is called the NUsurface Meniscus Implant and is currently undergoing and FDA trial in the United States. It conforms to the shape of the knee joint and pops in between the bones in the knee with no screws required.
2. The man, Rob Price, had the ACL in his left knee replaced and his meniscus removed following a basketball-related injury.
3. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber where the bones in the knee come together. There are two in each knee, with most patients seeming to have problems with the one on the inside of the knee.
4. Andreas Gomoll, MD, is treating Mr. Price at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.
5. As we age, the meniscus wears down, and younger people are often injured during sports or activities. However, people ages 30 to 50 do not have many treatment options because they are considered too young and active for a total knee replacement.
6. Dr. Gomoll said recovery time is about two or three months.
7. According to Dr. Gomoll, the best candidate for this procedure is someone who is between 30 years and 50 years, has had meniscal surgery, and does not have arthritis.
8. The NUsurface Meniscus Implant is currently being used in Europe and shows promising results.
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