Meniscus Root Tears: Current Concepts in Anatomy, Diagnosis, and Treatment Strategies
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Ankara University, Ankara, Türkiye
Sports Traumatol Arthrosc -

Abstract

Meniscal root tears are defined as radial tears or avulsions of the meniscal attachment within 1cm of its insertion on the tibial plateau. These injuries disrupt the meniscus’ ability to convert axial loads into circumferantial hoop stresses, resulting in increased tibiofemoral contact pressure and accelerated osteoarthritis. Medial meniscus posterior root tears are the most commonly encountered type, generally associated with degenerative diseases. Lateral meniscus root tears (MRT), on the other hand, are mostly associated with acute injuries of younger patients. Diagnosis can be challenging due to nonspecific clinical symptoms, necessitating a combination of thorough physical examination, patient history, and high-resolution imaging. Treatment strategies have evolved from partial meniscectomy to MRT repair, which is now considered the gold standard. Techniques such as transtibial pullout and suture anchor repair aim to restore the native anatomy and function of the meniscus. Postoperative protocols are evolving, but typically involve restricted weight-bearing and range of motion for the initial weeks. As understanding of meniscal root pathology continues to grow, further research is needed to refine surgical techniques and establish evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.