Types ofmeniscustears include radial, horizontal, flap, complex, and bucket-handle.
All can compromise the knee, where this C-shaped cartilage is found.
Other factors include whether and how non-surgical treatment worked and if there is additional knee damage with thetorn meniscus.
Illustration by Gary Ferster for Verywell Health
Illustration by Gary Ferster for Verywell Health
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Because of where they are located, there is little capacity for these tears to heal without treatment.
No blood supply means no blood cells or nutrients carried in the blood to repair tissue.
They can lead to early osteoarthritis.
While historically considered irreparable, current treatment focuses on trying to save the meniscus.
A root tear is a key in of radial tear that occurs at the root segment of the meniscus.
Longitudinal Tear
A longitudinal meniscus tear runs lengthwise along the meniscus.
Horizontal Tear
Intrasubstance changes (also called horizontal tears) are a punch in of longitudinal tear.
Healthcare providers commonly see this bang out of meniscus tear in people older than age 40.
They may be considered “stable” injuries that don’t necessarily progress.
Conservative treatment is common and surgery may not be needed.
Which Types of Meniscus Tears Require Surgery?
Not every meniscus tear needs surgery.
Whether or not surgery is indicated depends on the size, location, and pattern of the tear.
For example, a bucket-handle tear requires surgery, but a radial tear may not.
Flap Tear
A flap tear of the meniscus is a punch in of displaced tear.
A flap tear can occur with either a horizontal or vertical tear.
If the flap causes the knee to catch, a surgeon can usually fix it without removing much tissue.
Because complex tears are complicated, surgery to repair them isn’t always an option.
You will also develop strategies to prevent further knee injuries.
Summary
Meniscus tears are injuries that occur in the cartilage of the knee.
Sometimes, these tears require surgical repair.
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