Lateral meniscus

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Lateral Meniscus

The Lateral meniscus is a fibrocartilaginous band that spans the lateral side of the interior of the knee joint. It is one of the two menisci of the knee, the other being the medial meniscus. It is nearly circular and covers a larger portion of the articular surface than the medial. It can occasionally be injured or torn by twisting the knee or applying force to it.

Etymology

The term "meniscus" is derived from the Greek word "mēniskos", which means "crescent". The term "lateral" is derived from the Latin word "latus" which means "side".

Anatomy

The lateral meniscus is a C-shaped piece of fibrocartilage located within the knee. It is attached to the shin and thigh bones, and its primary function is to distribute body weight across the knee joint. It is larger and more circular than the medial meniscus.

Function

The main function of the lateral meniscus is to distribute the body weight across the knee joint. It also acts as a shock absorber, reducing the impact of physical activities such as walking, running, and jumping on the knee joint.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the lateral meniscus can occur as a result of trauma or degeneration. Traumatic injuries are often caused by a forceful twist or sudden stop when the knee is bent. Degenerative meniscus tears occur as a result of aging and wear and tear on the knee joint.

Treatment

Treatment for a torn lateral meniscus depends on the size and location of the tear. Non-surgical treatments include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy may also be recommended. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or remove the torn portion of the meniscus.

See Also

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD