All subjects underwent APM of the medial, lateral, or both menisci at which time a complete articular cartilage examination was carried out. Subjects with surgically significant chondral lesions were randomized to either CL-Deb or CL-Obs. Chondral debridement (CL-Deb) involved removing any unstable chondral flaps or fibrillated cartilage with a mo- torized shaver. No bony debridement or microfracture was performed for any grade IV lesions. Chondral lesions were left in situ in subjects randomized to CL-Obs. Subjects without chondral lesions or with those considered surgically insignificant, as defined above (NoCL), underwent APM, and were observed for the remainder of the study. Twenty ml of 0.5% bupivicaine was placed intra-articularly at the com- pletion of the procedure. All patients were given a prescription for Lortab 7.5 mg 1–2 po bid prn for post-operative pain, as well as a pre- scription for physical therapy focused on obtaining full range of motion followed by progressive strengthening.