A meniscus tear is an injury to the knee meniscus (medial or lateral) that disrupts the joint's cushioning ability and motor function.
Causes
The knee meniscus can be damaged due to trauma (impact, fall, ligament injury) or due to age-related pathological changes. A tear of the lateral meniscus occurs in conjunction with damage to the cruciate ligaments. A tear of the medial meniscus is associated with a fracture of the tibial plateau.
Symptoms
With a meniscus injury, a click occurs inside the knee, there is a sensation of friction in the joint, swelling in the joint area, edema, pain, and fluid accumulation inside, joint locking, and an inability to bend the leg at the knee due to the meniscus being compressed. Age-related degenerative changes manifest as mild pain, stiffness, and discomfort when bending the leg at the knee, a sensation of friction in the joint, and limited motor function.
Diagnosis
If a meniscus tear is suspected, one should consult an orthopedic doctor. In Israel, a specialist diagnosing meniscus damage assesses symptoms and conducts a physical examination of the patient. After that, an X-ray of the joint with three-dimensional projection and joint cavity puncture is ordered. If the X-ray is insufficient, an MRI may be prescribed. An effective method for examining the inner part of the joint is arthroscopy, which allows not only to see a clear picture of the meniscus condition but also to eliminate the damage.
Treatment
Depending on the overall history of the injury, treatment methods are divided. The conservative method includes physiotherapy, immobilization of the knee, maximum unloading of the knee joint, and cryotherapy. Another method is surgery. The extent of the meniscus tear determines the type of surgery. Total meniscectomy is indicated for severe damage without the possibility of restoration. Open surgeries to remove part of the meniscus and reinforce it are also performed. The most effective type of surgery performed in Israel is arthroscopy, which allows for the fastest recovery. Arthroscopy leaves no scars. In the postoperative period, the patient undergoes a rehabilitation course of restorative measures aimed at quick recovery.
Prevention
To prevent a meniscus tear, one should avoid excessive loads on the knee joint, falls, and regularly perform strengthening exercises.