July 4, 2015

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Torn Meniscus

What is a torn meniscus?

A torn meniscus is damage from a tear in the cartilage that is positioned on top of the tibia and allows the femur to glide when the knee joint moves. Tears are usually described by where they are located anatomically in the C shape and by their appearance (for example, "bucket handle" tear, longitudinal, parrot beak, and transverse). While physical examination may predict whether it is the medial or lateral meniscus that is damaged, a diagnostic procedure, like an MRI or knee arthroscopy, can locate the specific part of the cartilage anatomy that is torn and its appearance.


Reviewed on 1/30/2015