Meniscal Tear

Question 1

cause

Answer 1

twisting force on a loaded knee, usually sporting injury or getting up from a squatting position

Question 2

which tear is most common?

Answer 2

medial tears due to the menisci being more fixed and flatter than the lateral

Question 3

types of tears

Answer 3

longitudinal (risk bucket handle tears which can displace and prevent extension)
radial which can develop into parrot beak/oblique
horizontal which can develop into flap tear

Question 4

presentation

Answer 4

• localised pain in joint line (medial or lateral)
• effusion day after
• catching/locking sensation (difficulty straightening knee with 15 degree block in bucket handle tear)
• if knee remains locked it risks FFD (fixed flexion deformity)
• feeling the knee is about to give way

Question 5

which type of tear presents with a locked knee?

Answer 5

bucket handle meniscal tear

Question 6

what type of meniscal tear has pain in internal rotation and extension of knee at 90 degrees

Answer 6

lateral meniscal tear

Question 7

diagnosis

Answer 7

Steinmann’s test

MRI

Question 8

management

Answer 8

• only outer 1/3rd has blood supply therefore there is limited healing potential
• suturing of meniscus to bed often fails and requires arthroscopic meniscectomy
• steroid injections may help symptoms
  NEVER INJECT INTO TENDON