Italian Hospital of Buenos Aires
Tel: +54 11 4959 0200 Int: 8267
(leave voicemail)
Potosí 4247 PB. CABA
SG medical office
Avda. Coronel Díaz 2760
P.B “B” CABA
Monday 10am - 12pm
Thursday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Meniscal Injury
A meniscal injury is an injury that affects the menisci, which are two "C"-shaped structures located in the knee, which act as shock absorbers and stabilizers between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (leg bone). . These injuries can occur due to sharp turns or sudden movements of the knee, and are common in athletes and people who engage in intense physical activities. Meniscal degenerative injuries are also very common, meaning they occur due to the use of the knee over the years.
Injuries may occur to the internal meniscus (most frequently), the external meniscus, or both. And they may be associated with other concomitant injuries such as injury to the anterior cruciate ligament or collateral ligaments.
Symptoms of a meniscal injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but generally include:
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Pain in the knee, especially when performing specific movements.
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Swelling and tenderness in the knee.
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Feeling of locking of the knee.
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Difficulty bending or straightening the affected leg completely.
Diagnosis of a meniscal injury usually involves a specific physical examination along with evaluation of the patient's medical history and symptoms. In addition, imaging studies, such as MRIs or x-rays, may be performed to confirm the presence of the injury, evaluate its severity and therapeutic possibilities.
Treatment for a meniscal injury may vary depending on the severity of the injury and the patient's activity. Treatment options include:
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Rest and physical therapy: For minor injuries, rest and physical therapy may be enough to reduce pain and improve knee function.
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Medications: Pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
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Infiltrations: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be given into the knee to reduce inflammation and pain.
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Surgery: For more serious injuries or if conservative treatments are not effective, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to repair or remove part of the injured meniscus.
Recovery after a meniscal injury can take several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment received. Patients typically undergo a rehabilitation program after surgery to regain knee strength and function.
It is important to follow the recommendations of the medical team after surgery and the physical therapist during the recovery process to ensure a successful recovery and prevent future meniscal injuries.