ABSTRACT
The meniscus, once considered a vestigial structure, is now known to contribute not only to the load sharing, but also to the stability of the knee. When the knee is loaded in full extension, 70% of the compressive load through the lateral compartment is transmitted through the lateral meniscus and up to 50% of the medial load through the medial meniscus. The meniscus also provides secondary stability in resisting anterior tibial translation and this is especially important in the cruciate-deficient knee. Fairbank (1948) documented the degeneration of the knee following total menisectomy. Degeneration is more frequent with damage of the lateral meniscus.
