A Rare Case of Arthroscopic Lateral Segmental Meniscal Allograft Transplantation (SMALT) and Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation (OCA) of the Lateral Femoral Condyle Augmented With Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC).

ABSTRACT

The meniscus of the knee serves as a crucial load-bearing structure, and its damage can significantly impact weight distribution. In addressing focal meniscal defects, segmental meniscal allograft transplantation (SMALT) emerges as an innovative solution. Here, we detail a case involving a young, active female who underwent SMALT augmented with osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) and bone marrow aspirate concentration (BMAC). The patient, a 40-year-old former Division I volleyball player, previously underwent arthroscopic procedures and presented with knee pain alongside complex lateral meniscus tear evident in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. Initial arthroscopy revealed multiple tears, including segmental deficiency at the posterior horn-body junction and a horizontal cleavage tear. Despite failed attempts at repair due to the meniscal gap, a second-stage lateral SMALT was performed, with the allograft soaked in the patient's BMAC, supplemented with OCA to the lateral femoral condyle. Rehabilitation protocols tailored to both SMALT and OCA were implemented. This represents the first documented instance of lateral SMALT, extending the scope of viable solutions for segmental meniscal deficiencies, and marking a significant milestone in orthopedic practice.