Meniscal transplant

Has anyone had a medial meniscal transplant (different than a meniscectomy and meniscus repair)? My surgeon told me high-level climbing is not an option after a transplant. He says bending the knee >110 degrees then loading it with full body-weight will cause a re-injury, no matter how much time has passed since the surgery. If you've had this surgery, have you found this to be the case? Please also mention whether you had any concurrent issues (cartilage defect, bone necropsy, ligament tears) and how much time passed since your surgery and when you were getting back into climbing. I'd also be interested in how your knee has done with other sports, especially long distance running, skiing, and mountain biking. Thanks.

Tori, I've suffered from meniscus issues since an unfortunate team mate took my knee out playing stupid soccer in the early 90s. 35% menisectomy performed. In my 20s I had developed ostioarthritis in my knee similar to what is seen in 70 year olds. My knee has bone on bone contact. Running is absolutely a no go, but I have spent decades bouldering, mtbing, snowboarding, hiking, etc. So it sucks but is manageable if you keep the knee strong and limit impacts. 

Getting to your question, without knowing the extent of your injury nobody on the internet can really even begging to help. Like, can you walk, is your meniscus totally gone, 40%, 80%, etc,. you get the idea. So that said the research suggests, unless you are very old or sedentary the meniscal replacement is probably a bad idea. 

I had a serious look at doing what you're asking a few years back. Went to a knee specialist that treats the LA Kings hockey team. He told me the best plan is to deal with the pain until something new medically arrives, OR, he could do a procedure called micro fracture. The procedure has iffy results and is 6-9 months non weight bearing, but results in the growth of cartilage like stuff. I opted to wait it out and still am. 

If its and option for you, the absolute best thing for your knee recovery might just be strengthening and use. Squats, lunges, and hiking. Oh and get some hiking poles!!!That has kept me going all these years, best of luck to you!

I just got a meniscus transplant in November. I’m on my feet after 3.5 weeks and I can already bend my knee to 90 degrees. I’ll keep you posted when I start climbing.