In this paper we compared two groups of 80 patients each with meniscal tears. One group was treated by Arthrotomie and partial meniscectomie and the other group by an arthroscopic procedure also with partial meniscectomie. All patients were seen at a follow up between six and 18 months postoperatively. According to the Gaudernak scale we found in both groups 98% of very good and good results. The duration of hospitalisation and sickleave was reduced by 50% after the arthroscopic operation, which showed a significant difference.