ABSTRACT
The meniscus is a fibrocartilaginous structure that deepens the articular surface of the knee. This chapter focuses on the anatomy, function and pathology of the meniscus. The medial meniscus (MM) and lateral meniscus (LM) cover approximately 60 percent and 80 percent of the peripheral corresponding tibial articular surface, respectively. A discoid meniscus is a congenital anomaly that presents morphologically as a blockshaped meniscus instead of the typical crescentic shape. The incidences of hypoplasia and congential absence of either or both menisci are unknown but invariably occur in association with ipsilateral knee abnormalities. Ganglion cysts associated with the menisci are common and are related to cystic degeneration of the tissue. The meniscus has been shown to play a vital role in load transmission across the knee joint. The MM plays a role in AP stability in ligamentously compromised knees. Transplantation of a cadaveric LM or MM can be undertaken in selected patients who have failed non-surgical management of a meniscal-deficient knee.
