Meniscus Tears

1. Acute Trauma: Meniscus tears can occur due to sudden twisting or hyperextension of the knee joint, commonly seen in sports-related injuries or traumatic accidents.
2. Degenerative Changes: As we age, the meniscus tissue may weaken and become more prone to tears, particularly in individuals with pre-existing degenerative changes or osteoarthritis of the knee.
3. Repetitive Stress: Overuse or repetitive activities that involve bending, squatting, or pivoting motions can gradually wear down the meniscus tissue, increasing the risk of tears over time.

1. Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain in the knee joint, particularly along the joint line, is a common symptom of meniscus tears. Pain may worsen with activity or weight-bearing.
2. Swelling: Swelling or fluid accumulation in the knee joint, known as joint effusion, may occur following a meniscus tear, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
3. Mechanical Symptoms: Some individuals may experience mechanical symptoms, such as catching, locking, or popping sensations in the knee joint during movement.
4. Decreased Range of Motion: Reduced range of motion in the knee joint, especially with bending or straightening the leg, may be observed due to pain or mechanical blockage from the torn meniscus fragment.

Diagnosing a meniscus tear typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies, including:

• Physical Examination: Assessment of knee range of motion, stability, and provocative tests to reproduce symptoms, such as the McMurray test or Apley’s compression test.
• Imaging Studies: MRI scans are the gold standard for visualizing meniscus tears and assessing their location, size, and severity. X-rays may be ordered to rule out other knee pathologies, such as fractures or arthritis.

Partial Meniscectomy:

• Procedure: Partial meniscectomy involves removing the torn portion of the meniscus while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This is typically done arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera-guided instrument.
• Indications: Partial meniscectomy is indicated for symptomatic tears that cannot be repaired and are causing pain, swelling, or mechanical symptoms.
• Advantages: Relieves symptoms, improves knee function, and allows for quicker recovery compared to other surgical options.
• Considerations: May increase the risk of long-term joint degeneration and osteoarthritis, particularly in younger patients or those with extensive meniscus loss.

• Procedure: Meniscus repair involves suturing the torn edges of the meniscus back together to promote healing and preserve the function of the meniscus. This is typically done arthroscopically using specialized instruments and sutures.
• Indications: Meniscus repair is indicated for select tears located in the vascularized outer zone of the meniscus, where healing potential is higher.
• Advantages: Preserves meniscus tissue, restores joint stability, and reduces the risk of long-term joint degeneration.
• Considerations: Requires adequate blood supply and favorable tear characteristics for successful healing. Rehabilitation may be longer compared to partial meniscectomy.