Short-term functional outcomes of partial meniscectomy among middle-aged patients in Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy for middle-aged patients with meniscal tear is an effective procedure in relieving knee  pain and improving functional outcome. The functional outcome depends on gender, body size and type of meniscal tear.

Objective: The  aim of this study was to assess the short-term functional outcome after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in-middle aged patients with a  meniscal tear treated at Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Muhimbili  Orthopaedic Institute. A total 53 patients were enrolled. Visual Analogue Scale score was used to assess pain and Lysholm Knee  Functional Score was used to assess the functional outcome of the patients three months after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. Data  were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods to determine the short-term functional outcomes.

Results: There was a significant  pain reduction between preoperative (VAS Score 7.26±1.17) and 12th week postoperative (VAS score 2.32±1.34). Functional outcomes  improved at the 12th week postoperative (Lysholm knee scoring scale 80.04±11.63) compared to preoperative period (Lysholm knee  scoring scale 48.88±11.08). The functional outcome score at 12th week was graded as excellent to good (62%), fair (28%) and poor (10%).  Male had significant improvement than female in terms of functional outcome (P=0.008) at the 12th week postoperative.

Conclusion:  Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy improved knee pain and functional outcome in the short-term postoperative period. Males showed to  have better improvement in functional outcome compared to females.