Meniscal Injuries: Mechanism and Classification

Background: Meniscus injuries are among the most common knee injuries, often resulting from trauma or degenerative changes. The menisci, C-shaped fibrocartilaginous structures in the knee joint, play a crucial role in load distribution, shock absorption, and joint stability. Understanding the mechanisms behind meniscal injuries and classifying them is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. This study examines the various mechanisms that lead to meniscus tears and categorizes these injuries based on their characteristics and anatomical patterns. Methods: This comprehensive review analyzes the existing literature on meniscal injuries, focusing on injury mechanisms and classification systems from ۲۰۰۷ to ۲۰۲۱. It synthesizes findings from multiple studies that describe the types of meniscal tears, including their shapes and locations as visualized through imaging techniques such as MRI. The classification includes categories like longitudinal, radial, horizontal, and complex tears, each with distinct features. Furthermore, the study discusses the biomechanical forces involved in these injuries, particularly how rotational forces contribute to meniscal damage. Results: Findings indicate that meniscal injuries can occur due to various mechanisms, primarily involving rotational forces applied to a flexed knee. Common scenarios include a planted foot with internal or external rotation of the femur, which can lead to tears in the medial or lateral meniscus. Meniscal tears can be categorized into several types: longitudinal tears, which may appear as bucket handle tears; radial tears; horizontal tears; and complex tears, which involve a combination of these patterns. This classification also highlights the importance of vascular supply in healing potential, distinguishing between red-red (well-vascularized), red-white (partial vascularization), and white-white (avascular) regions in the meniscus. This understanding aids physicians in determining appropriate management strategies based on the type and location of the tear. Conclusion: Meniscus injuries are complex and can result from both acute trauma and chronic degeneration. A clear understanding of the mechanisms leading to these injuries, combined with a robust classification system, is vital for planning effective treatment. By classifying meniscal tears based on their anatomical features and considering their vascular supply, healthcare providers can tailor rehabilitation protocols and surgical interventions to improve recovery outcomes for patients suffering from these common knee injuries.

کلیدواژه ها:

Meniscal Injuries ، Knee Injuries ، Meniscus ، Classification ، Mechanism of Injury ، Rotational Forces ، Rehabilitation ، Vascularity