The menisci are small triangular shaped, shock absorbing cartilage discs in the knee joint that also help stabilize the knee. Portions of the meniscus have limited blood flow and can be susceptible to injury especially with planting and twisting activity.
Meniscus Tears
Small but mighty, the menisci are essential to protecting the rest of the cartilage in the knee and when torn can cause significant pain, swelling, and even locking of the knee joint. Evaluation and diagnosis are essential in deciding on a treatment plan for each individual patient.
Treatment for meniscal tears typically include surgical repair through knee arthroscopy. Surgical options range from trimming the torn piece out, fixing the meniscus with suture, or in cases of extensive injury a replacement with transplanted meniscus could be necessary.
Knee arthroscopy is the typical treatment for meniscus tears and with 2-3 small poke holes in the knee the surgeon can repair even the most complex of meniscus tears.
Newer implants for meniscus repair have made these surgeries more minimally invasive and leave behind very small suture-based implants to help hold the meniscal repair secure while healing.
Want to dive deeper? Take a look at some of the bonus educational videos to sharpen your understanding of meniscus tears.
