Meniscus Traumatic Tear

The menisci are located on the medial and lateral aspects of the knee. They are crescent-shaped wedges of fibrocartilage and enhance the articulation between the rounded femoral condyles and flat tibial plateaus. Additionally, the menisci serve to protect the tibiofemoral joint cartilage by altering load transmission, assisting with shock absorption, and providing stability and lubrication to the knee joint. The medial and lateral menisci segments are the anterior horn, body, and posterior horn. The medial and lateral horns of the menisci are anchored to the periphery through anterior and posterior root attachments. Meniscus tears occur when the knee is flexed and subjected to an external force that causes the knee to twist. Such an event can also result in damage to the knee ligaments. Young and active individuals in high-risk sports are at an increased risk for an acute traumatic meniscus tear. Additionally, tears can result from non-sporting activities in older individuals, likely due to age-related meniscus degeneration. Common meniscus tear orientation patterns include longitudinal (vertical and bucket handle), horizontal, transverse (radial), root, oblique, or complex morphologies. The decision to undergo a meniscus repair versus a meniscectomy is typically determined based on the tear location and pattern. However, meniscal repairs have demonstrated greater long-term patient-reported outcomes, slower progression to osteoarthritis, and better overall activity levels.