Using ACTIfit is easy for surgeons experienced in treating meniscal tears. The patient must have an intact meniscal rim, with anterior and posterior horns present, to enable attachment of ACTIfit. The procedure is performed arthroscopically, usually with spinal or general anesthesia. If the initial meniscus lesion cannot be sutured (repaired), then damaged tissue is removed in much the same way as in a partial meniscectomy and cut back to an area with good blood supply.
If the initial meniscus lesion cannot be sutured (repaired), then damaged tissue is removed in much the same way as in a partial meniscectomy and cut back to an area with good blood supply. The patient must have:
A
The meniscal defect is evaluated.
B
If the meniscal defect cannot be repaired, it is trimmed and prepared for ACTIfit.
C
ACTIfit is then measured to ensure the correct fit for the damaged area and cut on the surgical table using a scalpel.
D
The implant is then placed arthroscopically into the trimmed defect in the knee.
E
Several suturing techniques can be used to secure ACTIfit to the remaining meniscal rim and posterior/anterior horns, such as all-inside, inside-out or outside-in. This is dependent on the preference of the surgeon, as well as the location of the defect.
F
Post-operative rehabilitation, to protect the newly formed tissue during the initial remodelling phase, must commence immediately as directed by surgeon and physiotherapist.
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Photos courtesy of Prof Bellemans, University Hospital Leuven, Belgium.
Only orthopedic/sports medicine surgeons experienced in treating patients with meniscal tears and who have received training on handling the device should use the ACTIfit implant. The device is intended for partial meniscus defects. The anterior and posterior horn should be intact, and the meniscus rim should be stable.
During the standard arthroscopic meniscal procedure, the insertion of ACTIfit is intuitive for the surgeon.