We retrospectively reviewed the long term results of arthroscopic resection of the discoid meniscus in children and evaluated postoperative clinical symptoms and radiological changes.

The results of arthroscopic surgery in 27 symptomatic discoid menisci of 22 patients who were under 15 years old at the time of operation (average; 11 year 9 month old) were evaluated. Average follow-up period was 9 years 4 months (5 years-18 years 1 months). Clinical results were analyzed according to Ikeuchi's clinical grading system and radiological degenerative changes were classified according to Fairbank at the last follow-up.

According to Ikeuchi's grading system, excellent results were obtained in 10 cases (37.0%), good in 12 cases (44.4%), fair in 5 cases (18.5%). No radiological change was observed in 1 case (3.7%), 1 radiological sign in 5 cases (18.5%), 2 radiological signs in 13 cases (48.1%) and more than 3 radiological signs in 8 cases (29.6%) in the last follow-up radiograph. No correlation between clinical results and radiological changes.

Arthroscopic resection of discoid meniscus in children was effective at relieving symptoms over a follow up of more than 5 years, though radiological degenerative changes occurred. We recommend that follow up is resuired to determine whether the clinical results of knees in middle or older age groups will worsen.