This meta-analysis found no significant differences in the tested MRI
parameters, including MS, SI, and IIRMC. However, AC and AME worsened between
baseline and final follow-up. Conversely, patients treated with PU meniscal
scaffolds showed significant functional improvement and pain relief when compared
with baseline scores. Thus, PU meniscal scaffolds appear to be a viable
alternative for patients with partial meniscal defects, although further studies
are needed to determine whether worsened AC and AME are clinically relevant. In
particular, precise measurement of PU meniscal scaffolds in combination with
thorough investigation of the baseline articular cartilage status and meniscal
defect size may be effective for pain relief or functional improvement in
patients with PU meniscal scaffold implantation.
