Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus exercise therapy for degenerative meniscal tears: 10-year follow-up of the OMEX randomised controlled trial

Berg B, Roos EM, Englund M, Kise NJ, Engebretsen L, Eftang CN, Risberg MA · British Journal of Sports Medicine

The adjusted mean difference in change in the OARSI sum score was 0.39 (95% CI -0.19 to 0.97), with more progression in the meniscectomy group. Radiographic knee osteoarthritis appeared in 23% of the meniscectomy group and 20% of the exercise group, an adjusted risk difference of 3% (95% CI -13% to 19%). Patient-reported pain and knee function improved in both arms, and isokinetic knee muscle strength showed no clinically relevant separation.

Population

The same 140 OMEX participants, followed to 10 years

Intervention

Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy

Comparator

12 weeks of exercise therapy

Limitations

Ten-year radiographic follow-up in a trial of 140, so the osteoarthritis estimates are imprecise and both intervals cross zero. Full text was not retrievable.