[Measurement of the biomechanical stability of the healing menisci in animals: fibrin gluing, an alternative to traditional therapy methods?].

Six weeks after spontaneous healing or suturing of standardized longitudinal lesions in zone II of the posterior horn of the rabbit medial meniscus there was no difference of any kind evident. After fibrin sealing, however, a significant higher stability of scar tissue was measured. Compared to intact menisci in all cases scar stability was diminished, hence in the elongation of the scar the tissue was also weakened. This region of weakness was significantly reduced in menisci that had been sealed. Due to these results it is of utmost necessity that the meniscus suture in zone II should be thoroughly reexamined; the application of fibrin sealant should be seriously considered.