Active Implants said today it launched a 2nd clinical trial to evaluate its NUsurface meniscus implant designed to be meniscus replacement for patients looking to avoid or delay total knee replacement procedures.

Active Implant’s SUN trial is slated to enroll 120 patients with persistent knee pain caused by injury or deterioration at up to 20 sites, the Memphis, Tenn.-based company said.

“A damaged meniscus has a very limited healing potential, oftentimes leading to knee replacement surgery. There is an unmet need in the orthopedic market for a treatment option – such as the investigational NUsurface Meniscus Implant – that can fill the gap between minimally invasive meniscus repair and total knee replacement,” CEO Henry Klyce said in prepared remarks.

The NUsurface is made from medical grade plastic and is designed to not require fixation to bone or soft tissue by mimicking the function of the natural meniscus, Active Implants said.

The device has an investigative device exemption in the U.S. and has been cleared for clinical use in Europe and Israel, the company said.