Stem Cell Treatment to Repair Torn Meniscus
Using sheep, whose knees are similar to human knees, researchers got the meniscus to regrow itself by implanting a biodegradable plastic device to lure stem cells and help them grow. Every year about 1 million people have surgery to repair a tear in the meniscus of their knee, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. It’s an injury that can’t be fully fixed since cartilage doesn’t repair itself very well. Even patients who have surgery often go on to develop arthritis. Some eventually need a knee replacement.