Abstract

GELBART, BR  and  FIRER, P. Meniscus injuries: Where do we stand?. SA orthop. j. [online]. 2009, vol.8, n.3, pp.59-68. ISSN 2309-8309.

The role of the meniscus in the knee has previously been grossly underestimated. The last 25 years have produced an enormous amount of research that highlights the importance of the meniscus to the function of the knee. The primary role of the meniscus is load bearing in order to decrease the forces on the articular surface of the femur and tibia. However, the meniscus also functions as a secondary stabiliser of the knee, providing joint lubrication and shock absorption. The meniscus is also well supplied with nerve endings which explains the pain associated with meniscal injury and the role of the meniscus in proprioception. The management of meniscal injuries has evolved from open total meniscectomy to arthroscopic partial meniscectomy, meniscal repair, meniscal transplant and attempts at meniscal culture. This review provides an update on the literature and the current management options for meniscal injuries.

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