Aspects of the knee: meniscal injury and surgery

Abstract

The meniscus is a vital structure for the proper function of the knee joint. The anatomy and biomechanics of the meniscus are ideally suited for its function. Tears in the meniscus may be traumatic and or degenerative. They may also be associated with other knee ligament or chondral pathology. Clinical symptoms and signs of a meniscal tear are variable and most clinical signs unreliable. The magnetic resonance imaging scan is the most accurate imaging for the diagnosis of meniscal tears. Surgical treatment is aimed at preserving as much meniscus as possible to reduce the risk of later osteoarthritis. Meniscal repair and transplantation/replacement are evolving surgical treatments.

Keywords

meniscus knee biomechanics MRI scan meniscal repair meniscal transplantation osteoarthritis

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