Meniscopathy, or meniscal injury, affects the menisci: crescent-shaped cartilage structures inside the knee. Seen in cross-section, they are triangular — one face points outward (where they receive blood supply), another toward the femur and another toward the tibia. They are essential for the stability and proper function of the knee. Injury can result from trauma, age-related wear or biomechanical imbalances.
Who is more prone?
It's important to identify the risk profile. Among the most prone are athletes, especially in contact sports or those involving sharp twisting movements, such as soccer or basketball. Also people with biomechanical imbalances, such as knock-knees (valgus) or bow-legs (varus).
Injury mechanisms
Acute meniscal injuries occur during quick pivots or sudden changes of direction. Degenerative injuries develop gradually from aging and the continuous wear of the knee.
A meniscus is considered stable when it has 2 mm or less of movement.
Arthroscopic treatment
Arthroscopy is the modern method of meniscal repair. Depending on the case:
- Reshaping or partial meniscectomy: the damaged part of the meniscus is removed, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Meniscus repair: in selected cases, when the tear and its location are favorable, it is sutured to promote natural tissue healing.
- Meniscus transplant: for severe damage, the damaged meniscus is replaced with a donor one.
Rehabilitation protocol
Postoperative rehabilitation is key to a good recovery. The plan is comprehensive and personalized — strengthening, mobility and targeted physical therapy — and the resumption of weight-bearing depends on the procedure:
| Procedure | Resumption of weight-bearing |
|---|---|
| Meniscal reshaping | No weight-bearing for 2 days |
| Repair with sutures | 3 to 4 weeks |
Injury prevention
Good technique during sport, appropriate protective equipment, quadriceps strengthening, weight control and an active, healthy lifestyle to maintain muscle strength and flexibility.
The office is located in Querétaro: Hospital San José Moscati, floor 28, office 2807.