Torn Meniscus
What is a torn meniscus?
The ends of the three bones in the knee - the
femur, tibia, and patella - are covered with cartilage
(a smooth material that covers bone ends of a
joint to cushion the bone and allow the joint
to move easily without pain) that acts as a shock
absorber. Between the bones of the knees are two
crescent-shaped discs of connective tissue, called
menisci, which also act as shock absorbers to
cushion the lower part of the leg from the weight
of the rest of the body.
Meniscus tears can occur during a rotating movement
while bearing weight, such as when twisting the
upper leg while the foot stays in one place during
sports and other activities. Tears can be minor,
with the meniscus staying connected to the knee,
or major, with the meniscus barely attached to
the knee by a cartilage thread.
What are the symptoms of a torn meniscus?
The following are the most common symptoms of
a torn meniscus. However, each individual may
experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may
include:
- pain, especially when holding the knee straight
- swelling
- knee may click or lock
- knee may feel weak
The symptoms of a torn meniscus may resemble
other medical conditions or problems. Always consult
your physician for a diagnosis.
How is torn meniscus diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and
physical examination, diagnostic procedures for
a torn meniscus may include the following:
- x-ray - a diagnostic test which uses
invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce
images of internal tissues, bones, and organs
onto film.
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) -
a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination
of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer
to produce detailed images of organs and structures
within the body; can often determine damage
or disease in a surrounding ligament or muscle.
- computed tomography scan (Also called a
CT or CAT scan.) - a diagnostic imaging
procedure that uses a combination of x-rays
and computer technology to produce cross-sectional
images (often called slices), both horizontally
and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows
detailed images of any part of the body, including
the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans
are more detailed than general x-rays.
- arthroscopy - a minimally-invasive
diagnostic and treatment procedure used for
conditions of a joint. This procedure uses a
small, lighted, optic tube (arthroscope) which
is inserted into the joint through a small incision
in the joint. Images of the inside of the joint
are projected onto a screen; used to evaluate
any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in
the joint; to detect bone diseases and tumors;
to determine the cause of bone pain and inflammation.
- radionuclide bone scan - a nuclear
imaging technique that uses a very small amount
of radioactive material, which is injected into
the patient's bloodstream to be detected by
a scanner. This test shows blood flow to the
bone and cell activity within the bone.
Treatment for a torn meniscus:
Specific treatment for a torn meniscus will be
determined by your physician based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the injury
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures,
and therapies
- expectation for the course of the injury
- your opinion or preference
Treatment may include:
- muscle-strengthening exercises
- arthroscopic surgery
- open surgery
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