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Previous randomized trials of arthroscopic partial meniscal meniscectomy have involved middle-aged and older patients with degenerative meniscal tears; in those studies, surgery has not proven to be beneficial compared with a nonsurgical approach. Now, researchers in Denmark have conducted a trial in 121 younger patients (age range, 18–40; mean age, 30), most of whom had tears associated with identifiable trauma. Symptom duration varied considerably, from a few months to ≈2 years. Patients with displaced bucket-handle tears and those with complete rupture of a ligament were excluded. Participants were randomized to surgery (followed by standard postoperative exercises) or to a 12-week, individualized exercise therapy program (2 sessions wee…