Comparing Long-Term Outcomes in Fresh vs. Frozen Meniscal Allograft Transplants: A Critically Appraised Topic
Date
2-19-2025
Faculty Mentor
Jennifer Savage Burgett, Kinesiology; Chris Clark, Kinesiology
Files
Submission Type
Conference Proceeding
Location
1:15-1:25 pm | Houston Cole Library, 11th Floor
Description
Context
Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) is an essential procedure for young, active patients with symptomatic meniscal deficiencies who have failed conservative treatments. Clinical decisions regarding the use of fresh versus frozen grafts are critical due to differences in availability, cost, and outcomes. This critical appraised topic will address the clinical question: In young, active patients requiring MAT (P), does the use of fresh allografts (I) compared to frozen allografts (C) improve long-term outcomes in pain reduction, knee function, and return to sport (O)?
Methods
A computerized search was completed in October 2024. The search terms used were "meniscal fresh allograft transplant," "knee function following meniscal transplant," "knee biomechanics AND meniscus transplant," and "knee anatomy AND meniscus tears." Electronic databases used were PubMed and the JSU Library databases. Inclusion criteria: articles written in the English language and studies published between 2013 and 2024. Exclusion criteria: case studies, geriatric and sedentary populations, and short-term outcomes with MAT. Validity of the studies were determined using the Strengthening of the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) scale. One author independently reviewed the studies, scored each paper, and reviewed the completed appraisals to come to a consensus on the study quality.
Results
The literature search retrieved 114 total articles, and five main articles were used based on the inclusion criteria. Both fresh and frozen allografts improved knee function and delayed degenerative changes. In regard to using fresh grafts, results demonstrated better long-term outcomes in pain reduction, functional improvements, and the prevention of additional surgeries. Additionally, fresh grafts yielded an average return-to-sports rate of 67-69% within 9.2 months. In contrast, frozen grafts provided practical advantages with longer shelf life and broader accessibility. Survivorship ranged from 10 to 16 years for both graft types, with failure rates of 10-29%. However, logistical challenges, including limited availability of fresh grafts, make frozen grafts more feasible for many patients.
Conclusions
Fresh grafts remain the gold standard for MAT, offering superior clinical outcomes. However, frozen grafts are a viable alternative due to practicality and accessibility. For athletic trainers and healthcare professionals, understanding these differences is essential for guiding rehabilitation and managing patient expectations. Future research should focus on tailored rehabilitation protocols for each graft type and expanding studies on diverse athletic populations to optimize clinical outcomes.
Keywords
student research, kinesiology
Rights
This content is the property of Jacksonville State University and is intended for non-commercial use. Video and images may be copied for personal use, research, teaching or any "fair use" as defined by copyright law. Users are asked to acknowledge Jacksonville State University. For more information, please contact digitalcommons@jsu.edu.
Disciplines
Kinesiology
Recommended Citation
Chastain, Meagan, "Comparing Long-Term Outcomes in Fresh vs. Frozen Meniscal Allograft Transplants: A Critically Appraised Topic" (2025). JSU Student Symposium 2025. 22.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/ce_jsustudentsymp_2025/22
