Aseptic synovitis after meniscal repair using the biodegradable meniscus arrow.

ABSTRACT

We report a case of aseptic synovitis in a 19-year-old man. The synovitis of the left knee developed 13 months after meniscal repair using the biodegradable Meniscus Arrow (Bionx Inc, Malvern, PA). Histologic examination revealed chronic nonspecific synovitis and birefringent materials. Immunohistochemical tests were positive in lysozyme, alpha-1-antitrypsin, and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin. After arthroscopic synovectomy, pain and swelling of the knee joint were relieved and the patient's range of motion fully recovered. We have found no previous report of aseptic synovitis accompanying meniscal repair using the biodegradable Meniscus Arrow.