Influence of donor age on the biomechanical and biochemical properties of human meniscal allografts.

Background: Although the use of meniscal allografts to replace severely damaged or absent menisci is commonplace, little is known about the effects of donor age on the biochemical and biomechanical properties of human menisci.

Hypothesis: The mechanical and biochemical properties of human medial and lateral menisci from donors less than 45 years of age do not vary with donor age.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.