Nonoperative treatment of partial-thickness meniscal tears identified during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

The reported incidence and treatment of partial-thickness meniscal tears seen at anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction varies widely. The success of nonoperative treatment of partial meniscal tears identified during ACL reconstruction at our institution was reviewed. All incomplete meniscal tears were treated with observation, all full-thickness tears were repair or partial meniscectomy. Partial tears of the lateral meniscus were noted three times more commonly than in the medial meniscus and were seen more acutely after ACL injury than full-thickness tears. At 2-year follow-up, excellent knee function was noted when these tears were treated nonoperatively.