Meniscectomies in children. Report of long-term results (mean, 8.3 years) of 26 children.

Controversy exists over the management of the pediatric patient with a suspected tear of the meniscus. Twenty-six patients who underwent uncomplicated meniscectomy during a period of open epiphyseal plates were reviewed by personal followup. The average followup of these 26 patients was 8.3 years. Ligamentous laxity, early degenerative arthritis, and symptomatic knee pain were found; only 42% demonstrated an excellent or good result. Intensive preoperative evaluation and conservative management of selected meniscal lesions in children are recommended.