Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a specialized C-shaped cartilage in the
knee. The medial (inner) meniscus and the lateral (outer) meniscus act
as a cushion in the knee to prevent the joint cartilage surfaces from
grinding against each other. Meniscus tears in young patients are
usually caused by a traumatic twisting injury to the knee and may be
seen in combination with other ligament and cartilage injuries to the
knee. In older patients, the meniscus can tear over time without any
specific injury.
How are they diagnosed?
Signs of meniscus tears include pain on the inner or outer
part of the knee, swelling, tenderness, popping, locking, and buckling
of the knee. Xrays do not show the meniscus, but they can show
fractures, arthritis, or other causes of knee pain. MRI can show tears
in the meniscus as well as injuries to the ligaments and tendons around
the knee.
How are they treated?
Arthroscopic surgery is usually recommended for painful
meniscus tears. Most tears involve the central part of the meniscus and
are treated with removal of the torn portion (partial meniscectomy).
Some tears in young patients involve the outer rim of the meniscus and
can be repaired with sutures (meniscal repair). Full recovery can
usually be expected in 4-6 weeks.
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