The Osteochondral Unit and Biology of Cartilage Repair The function of diarthrodial joints relies on the health and integrity of the osteochondral unit, which encompasses the composite tissue of articular cartilage, calcified cartilage layer and subchondral bone. , Alterations in…
Introduction In search of the ideal meniscal substitute, natural and synthetic materials for meniscal replacement have been reported with variable outcomes. Although meniscus allograft transplantation is the only clinically available option for total meniscus replacement, disadvantages to its use include…
Introduction Meniscal injury is the most common knee pathological condition encountered in orthopaedic clinics. Although only a few decades ago the menisci were considered a vestigial structure, today we understand their importance as key structures in providing optimal knee function.…
Introduction Meniscal ramp lesions have a reported incidence ranging from 16% to 24% in primary and revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions. There is no consensus on the exact definition of a meniscal ramp lesion. A meniscal ramp lesion was…
Introduction Approximately 40% to 70% of the load transmitted through the knee is done by the menisci. The mechanical load absorption ability of the menisci is to convert axial load into circumferential hoop stress. The menisci also play a major…
Introduction The role of the meniscus in knee stability and tibiofemoral alignment and its unique ability to turn axial joint loads into hoop stresses have become increasingly understood. With the integral role the meniscus plays in joint preservation, it is…
Introduction Abundant research has elucidated the many biomechanical and functional characteristics of the meniscus, including its role in providing translational stability, rotational stability, proprioception and absorption of a significant proportion of load dispersed at the tibiofemoral joint. , , Thus…
Introduction The biomechanical properties of the menisci have been extensively studied. Once thought to be a functionless structure akin to an embryonic remnant, it is now recognised that the menisci are critical for maintaining proper knee kinematics and function and…
Introduction In the United States a meniscal tear is the most common diagnosis among patients undergoing knee arthroscopy, with incidence rates reported to exceed 50 people per 100,000. Patients with meniscal tears or meniscal deficiency have been shown over time…
Introduction Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are one of the most common injuries of the knee, with approximately 200,000 ruptures in the United States each year. On the contrary, only 3% of the injured knee ligaments are isolated posterior cruciate…