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Double-layered lateral meniscus: a newly found anomaly.
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jichi Medical School, Tochigi-ken, Japan.
Summary
This study details two cases of a double lateral meniscus, a rare condition where an extra meniscus overlays the primary one. Surgical removal of the accessory meniscus successfully resolved symptoms in both patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Knee Anatomy
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- The lateral meniscus is crucial for knee joint stability and shock absorption.
- Anatomical variations of the meniscus can lead to symptomatic knee pain.
- Double lateral meniscus is an exceptionally rare congenital anomaly.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with symptoms attributed to a double lateral meniscus.
- A characteristic finding was the upper accessory meniscus connected to the posterior horn and middle segments of the lower meniscus.
- No meniscal tears or fiber arrangement disturbances were noted in the observed menisci.
Findings:
- Arthroscopic resection of the supernumerary (upper) lateral meniscus led to complete symptom resolution in both cases.
- The resected accessory meniscus exhibited normal histological and structural characteristics.
- The condition appears to be a structural anomaly rather than a degenerative or traumatic pathology.
Implications:
- This report highlights a rare meniscal anomaly and its successful arthroscopic management.
- It suggests that symptomatic double lateral meniscus can be effectively treated by removing the accessory component.
- Further research may elucidate the embryological origin and long-term outcomes of this condition.