HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – The Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine is accepting applicants for a prospective randomized trial launching this fall that compares nanoscopic and standard arthroscopies for treatment of meniscus tears.

Nanoarthroscopy is performed through a needle scope, known as a nanoscope, instead of traditional portals and incisions. The goals of the randomized trial are to determine whether the more minimally invasive approach of the nanoscope improves patient outcomes for partial meniscectomies as well as fully evaluate return to play and return to work after surgery.

“We have developed several nanoscopic techniques at Marshall and have been pleased with the minimally invasive nature and positive impact on our patients. This trial is the next step in that research,” said Chad D. Lavender, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon at Marshall Health and assistant professor in the department of orthopaedic surgery at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine.

Lavender has completed more than 100 procedures to date using the nanoscope.

Marshall is currently recruiting 100 patients for the study. All patients under the age of 60 with a meniscus tear are potentially eligible to participate at the surgeon’s discretion. Participants will be randomly equally divided between two groups, one using nanoscopic technology for the surgery and the other using standard arthroscopy. Surgeries will be performed at Cabell Huntington Hospital. 

Participants will attend regularly scheduled study visits with Marshall Health physicians for ongoing assessment. To schedule a consultation or for more information about the clinical trial, please call Marshall Orthopaedics at 304-691-6710.

Marshall is one of the first centers in the country to research nanoscopic technology and one of two sites chosen for this type of clinical trial. Arthrex, who distributes the nanoscope, provided partial funding of the study.  

###

Study 1926751-2 has been approved by the Marshall University Institutional Review Board #1.

Date Posted: Monday, December 12, 2022