A Case Report of a National Judo Champion: Is Return to High-Level Contact Sports Possible After Meniscus Allograft Transplantation?

TL;DR

A national judo champion successfully returned to high-level competition after meniscus allograft transplantation, though rerupture risks remain.

Contribution

This case report demonstrates the possibility of returning to elite contact sports after meniscus allograft transplantation.

Findings

A national judo champion returned to high-level competition after meniscus allograft transplantation.

The case highlights the importance of tailored rehabilitation and follow-up to manage rerupture risks.

Returning to contact sports post-MAT is possible but carries a risk of rerupture.

Abstract

Meniscus allograft transplantation (MAT) is a surgical procedure reserved for (relatively) younger individuals who remain symptomatic after the resection of a voluminous part of the meniscus. Return to sports and certainly the level of sport post-MAT are highly variable. We present a unique case of a national judo champion who was able to compete at the highest level following MAT. Considerations regarding the rehabilitation and follow-up of this patient are provided, and the risk of rerupture is discussed. Although returning to high-level contact sports post-MAT is possible, the risk of rerupture should be considered.

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