The Effect of Stem Cells on Meniscus Tear Injuries

Abstract

The Meniscus injuries are associated with pain, swelling, impairment in function and activity levels as well as early osteoarthritis of the knee joint. The prevalence of meniscal tear injuries is close to 12% to 14%, with an occurrence of 60-70 cases per 100,000 individuals. There are about 850,000 cases per year and the global annual cost is estimated at $4 billion. Professional and amateur athletes demonstrate meniscus tear rates between 1.58-2.98 injuries per 10,000 athletic exposures. Sports with the highest rates of athletes affected by meniscus tear injuries include: football, soccer, basketball, wrestling, and rugby. Meniscus tear surgeries may lead to potential side effects or medical complications. The effectiveness of stem cells for meniscus injuries in animal and human subjects is something that researchers have investigated. Often preferred mesenchymal stem cells are the source for procedures seen in orthopedics as they change into many types of tissues including: cartilage, bone, muscle, bone, and fat. The use of stem cells in transplantation has shown an improved rate of healing, enhanced tissue quality, sustained functional gains, and improved outcomes in clinic. Researchers think the use of stem cells may offer other options for people with an orthopedic injury including meniscus tears decreasing recovery time, improving function, and decreasing degenerative osteoarthritis.