Abstract
Purpose of Review
The concept of meniscal extrusion has recently been recognized as a hallmark of meniscus dysfunction. This review examines contemporary literature regarding the pathophysiology, classification, diagnosis, treatment, and future directions for investigation regarding meniscus extrusion.
Recent Findings
Meniscus extrusion, defined as >3 mm of radial displacement of the meniscus, leads to altered knee biomechanics and accelerated knee joint degeneration. Meniscus extrusion has been associated with degenerative joint disease, posterior root and radial meniscal tears, and acute trauma. Meniscus centralization and meniscotibial ligament repair have been proposed as techniques to address meniscal extrusion with promising biomechanical, animal model, and early clinical reports.
Summary
Further studies on the epidemiology of meniscus extrusion and associated long-term nonoperative outcomes will help to elucidate its role in meniscus dysfunction and resultant arthritic development. Understanding and appreciation for the anatomic attachments of the meniscus will help to inform future repair techniques. Long-term reporting on the clinical outcomes of meniscus centralization techniques will yield insights into the clinical significance of meniscus extrusion correction.
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This study was partially funded by the following: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases for the Musculoskeletal Research Training Program (T32AR56950). Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH.
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Mark Langhans, Abhinav Lamba, Daniel Saris, Patrick Smith, and Aaron Krych declare they have no conflict of interest.
Aaron Krych voluntarily discloses: Aesculap/B.Braun: research support; American Journal of Sports Medicine: editorial or governing board; Arthrex, Inc: IP royalties; paid consultant; research support; International Cartilage Repair Society: board or committee member; International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery, and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: board or committee member. Daniel Saris voluntarily discloses: Cartilage: editorial or governing board; JRF: research support; NewClip: paid consultant. Patrick Smith voluntarily discloses: American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine: board or committee member; Arthrex, Inc: IP royalties; paid consultant; paid presenter or speaker; research support; Associate Editor-Journal of Knee Surgery: editorial or governing board; Spinal Simplicity: stock or stock options.
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Langhans, M.T., Lamba, A., Saris, D.B.F. et al. Meniscal Extrusion: Diagnosis, Etiology, and Treatment Options. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 16, 316–327 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-023-09840-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-023-09840-4