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Meniscus tears

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy  - series
Knee arthroscopy - series
Meniscal tears
Meniscal tears

Alternative names    Return to top

Tear - meniscus; Knee injury - meniscus; Cartilage tear

Definition    Return to top

Meniscus tears describes a tear in the shock-absorbing cartilage (meniscus) of the knee.

Considerations    Return to top

A physical examination shows signs of torn meniscus. This includes various manipulations of the joint.
Other tests that show meniscus tears may include:

Causes    Return to top

The meniscus is a C-shaped fibrous piece of cartilage which is found in certain joints and forms a buffer between the bones to protect the joint. The meniscus also serves as a shock-absorption system, assists in lubricating the joint, and limits the joint flexion and extension.

Meniscal tears are most commonly caused by twisting or hyperflexion of the joint.

Symptoms    Return to top

First Aid    Return to top

The goal of treatment is to minimize the symptoms and protect the joint from further injury while it heals.

Full weight bearing is discouraged (the person may need to use crutches). A knee immobilizer is often applied to prevent further injury to the joint. Ice is applied to reduce swelling, and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are given to reduce swelling and pain.

Physical activity is allowed -- as tolerated. Physical therapy should be involved to help regain joint and leg strength. If the injury is acute, and/or you have a high activity level, knee arthroscopy (surgery) may be necessary. Age has an effect on treatment. Younger patients are more likely to have problems without surgery.

Do Not    Return to top

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if    Return to top

Call your health care provider if symptoms of meniscus tears occur after an injury to the knee.

Call your health care provider if you are being treated for a meniscus tear and you notice increased instability in your knee, if pain or swelling return after they initially subsided, or if your injury does not appear to be resolving with time.

Also call if you re-injure your knee.

Prevention    Return to top

Use proper technique when exercising or playing sports. Many cases of meniscus tears may not be preventable.

Update Date: 4/28/2004

Updated by: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, Vail, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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