There are several benefits to this type of surgery. First of all, only a few small puncture holes are needed to slip the surgical tools into the joint. No large scars are needed. The back of the knee doesn't have to be opened to tie the sutures. Healing time is shorter.

There's less risk of damaging nerves or blood vessels with arthroscopy. The risk of infection is also less. The disadvantages may be just coming to light.

The first long-term studies are being reported. After about 10 years of using special devices that allow for an all-inside or all-arthroscopic repair, it's clear that the repair is incomplete for many patients. A second operation may be needed to repair or remove the re-injured meniscus.