Abstract des Autors

Meniscal injury is a major cause of functional impairment of the knee. For many years the meniscus was treated with disrespect as an unnecessary appendage that could be sacrificed with the first hint of malfunction. In 1948 Fairbank described radiographic changes following total meniscectomy. As long term results after major meniscectomy were disappointing, a conservative clinical approach to the management of meniscal tears has developed over the past two decades. Meniscal preservation is emphasised, as the menisci play important roles in weight bearing, stabilisation, and energy absorption. In recent decades, a shift towards meniscal preservation has led to the development of new surgical techniques. This article will review the basic science of the semilunar cartilage and current approaches to diagnosis and treatment of meniscal injuries. Verf.-Referat