PURPOSE: The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of using a lateral wedge insole (LWI) during the first 3 months after medial meniscus posterior root (MMPR) repair. METHODS: Overall, 179 patients were categorized into LWI use (LWI group, 90 patients) and nonuse (control group, 89 patients) groups. Patients in the LWI group were instructed to wear an LWI from the initiation of load bearing up to 3 months postoperatively. Medial meniscus extrusion (MME) was evaluated preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively, Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade and clinical scores were evaluated preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively, and second-look arthroscopic meniscal healing scores were evaluated at 1 year postoperatively. RESULTS: The proportion of patients with KL grade progression at 2 years postoperatively was significantly lower in the LWI group than in the control group (23.3% vs. 39.3%
CONCLUSIONS: The use of LWI is an effective way to delay postoperative osteoarthritis progression and improve clinical outcomes after MMPR repair. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.