Using semitendinosus tendon as a replacement for meniscus in the knee

Autologous Semitendinosus Tendon Graft as Meniscal Transplant - a Clinical Pilot Study

Observational Karolinska Institutet · NCT04753424

This study is testing if using a tendon from the back of the thigh can successfully replace the meniscus in the knee for people who have had it removed, and how well it works for their recovery and long-term joint health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska Institutet Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT04753424 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the use of the semitendinosus tendon as a graft for meniscal transplantation in patients who have undergone meniscectomy. The study aims to assess patient satisfaction, graft failure rates, and the development of osteoarthritis following the procedure. By utilizing a tendon known for its biological properties, the research seeks to determine if it can effectively function as a meniscal substitute. The approach involves surgical techniques to implant the graft and monitor outcomes over time.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who have had a subtotal or total meniscectomy and are experiencing related symptoms without significant osteoarthritic changes.

Not a fit: Patients with significant osteoarthritis or those with ongoing ACL insufficiency may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a more accessible and effective option for meniscal replacement, improving knee function and reducing the risk of osteoarthritis.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of semitendinosus tendon grafts has been explored in other contexts, this specific application for meniscal transplantation is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Previous subtotal or total meniscectomy
* Post meniscectomy symptoms
* No osteoarthritic changes on radiography more than Ahlbäck 1
* Knee aligment (hip-knee-angle) +/- 3°
* No persisting ACL insufficiency

Exclusion Criteria:

* Difficulty understanding the instructions
* Current psychiatric diagnosis
* Smoking

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Patient SatisfactionGraft FailureOsteo Arthritis KneeACLMeniscus Tearmeniscus transplantation
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.