Can we Predict the Outcomes of Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy?

This manuscript comprehensively reviews the most recent studies on preoperative and intraoperative factors that positively or negatively influence the clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM). Initial research focused on baseline demographic (e.g., age, sex, BMI) and meniscal tear characteristics to predict short- and medium-term outcomes. Recent investigations, however, have broadened this scope to include previously overlooked ancillary elements, such as socio-economic and psychological factors. Furthermore, non-meniscal anatomical features—including bony alignments and morphology, and joint stability—have been studied, along with surgical-related elements like the volume of resected tissue and the impact of specific surgical techniques. Crucially, long-term studies, some with over 20 years of follow up, are now available, offering a clearer understanding of the rates of symptomatic and asymptomatic osteoarthritic progression based on different baseline characteristics. While precisely predicting the clinical and radiological outcomes of APM remains challenging, this manuscript provides a comprehensive review of the most current evidence. It aims to help surgeons more adequately treat and counsel patients presenting with meniscal tears. Future research should prioritize developing and validating predictive algorithms that integrate the multitude of success and failure factors discussed in this review.