- medial tear much more common than lateral tear, may be due to difference in excursion (medial ~ 5 mm, lateral ~ 11mm)
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Functions of Menisci |
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Mechanism
- twisting force on knee when it is partially flexed (e.g. stepped down and turning)
- requires moderate trauma in young person but only mild trauma in elderly due to degeneration
Clinical Features
- immediate pain, difficulty weightbearing, instability and clicking
- increased pain with squatting and/or twisting
- effusion (hemarthrosis) with insidious onset (24-48 hours after injury)
- joint line tenderness medially or laterally
- locking of knee (if portion of meniscus mechanically obstructing extension)
Investigations
- MRI, arthroscopy
Treatment
- if not locked: ROM and strengthening
- if locked or failed above: arthroscopic repair/partial meniscectomy