The medial meniscus has an anterior root that attaches to the area in front of the tibial attachment of the ACL, specifically in the intercondylar fossa of the tibia.
Additionally, the posterior fibers of the anterior horn of the medial meniscus connect to the transverse ligament.
This anterior root can vary in attachment, with most people (82%) having it on the flat surface of the tibia, anterior to the tibial eminence.
There is also a normal variation where the anterior root attaches near the midline of the tibia in 15% of individuals. In some cases (3%), there may be an absent anterior root attachment, and the medial meniscus is supported by the anterior inter-meniscal ligament (AIML).
It's important to note that subluxation of the medial meniscus anterior root is normal and doesn't necessarily indicate a pathological condition.
🔍 Exploring the Meniscus Microstructure! 🔬
🌐 The meniscus, a critical component in our knees, is fascinating in its structure and function.
🔵 Longitudinally Oriented Circumferential Collagen Bundles: running parallel to its long axis and providing essential hoop stress.
🔴 Radial Fibers: Running perpendicular to the circumferential collagen and preventing meniscal extrusion, even in the face of tears.
💉 Vascular Zones: Understanding these is key!
- Red Zone: The outermost 10-30%, blood supply from the perimeniscal plexus
- Red-White Zone: This transitional zone extends about 3-5 millimeters from the periphery. -
White Zone: The innermost and relatively avascular area.
🔄 Evolving Treatments: Traditionally, inner meniscus tears led to partial meniscectomy. But now, there's a shift towards preservation, especially in the red-white and white zones. Intriguingly, newer studies hint that younger adults might have a more robust blood supply here than previously thought.
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