The Link between Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Knee Meniscus Tear and Repair in Medically Underserved Community

Introduction: Menisci function primarily in shock absorption and load transmission and can be torn, in isolation or concomitantly, via various activities. Our primary objective in this study was to analyze patients in the unique RGV community with various pre-existing medical conditions and determine if there was an association with the risk of knee meniscus tear and repair surgery. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review using the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) UTHealth electronic database utilizing medical charts during the period January 1, 2018, to January 1, 2025. We collected and analyzed medical charts of individuals who were diagnosed with various pre-existing medical conditions using ICD-10 codes, and individuals who underwent meniscus tear and repair surgery using current procedural terminology codes. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results were reported as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. All analyses were performed with R statistical software. Results: For bivariate analysis, T2DM, hypertension, obesity, and anemia showed statistically significant effects. T2DM, hypertension, and anemia showed decreased risk while obesity showed an increased risk of meniscus surgery. For multivariate analysis, T2DM and anemia show statistically significant decreased risk of meniscus surgery. Conclusion: This study shows that some potentially overlooked pre-existing medical conditions may decrease the risk for meniscus tears requiring meniscus repair surgery. If supported in future studies, physicians and other healthcare providers may use this knowledge to help evaluate the risk of surgery when caring for individuals with a meniscus tear, especially in this underserved community.