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[External discoid menisci. Apropos of a familial series of 6 cases]
C de Lambilly1, X Pascarel, J F Chauvet
1Service de Chirurgie Orthopédique et Traumatologique, Centre Hospitalier Pellegrin-Tripode, Bordeaux.
Abstract:
Discoid meniscus is a well-known meniscal dysmorphia affecting more often the lateral meniscus of the knee. Familial series are exceptional with only two reported instances. A new series of three bilateral symptomatic cases of lateral discoid menisci was reported in a family of three brothers and sisters, whom parents had never suffered from their knees. During operative procedure four complete and two incomplete types were found. Two complete and four partial meniscectomies have been performed followed by four good results in the five with sufficient follow-up. The origin of this malformation is unknown. The phylogenetic and ontogenetic studies give no explanation and genetic factors seem to have a minor role.
Insights
Discoid meniscus, a knee abnormality, was studied in a family. Researchers found three siblings with symptomatic lateral discoid menisci, suggesting a potential genetic link, though its origin remains unclear.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Discoid meniscus is a congenital knee abnormality, more prevalent in the lateral meniscus.
- Familial cases are rare, with only two previously documented instances.
- This study presents a new familial series of symptomatic lateral discoid menisci.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a novel familial cluster of bilateral symptomatic lateral discoid menisci.
- To investigate the presentation and potential etiology of this rare condition within a family.
- To evaluate surgical outcomes for discoid meniscus in affected family members.
Main Methods:
- Case series reporting on three siblings with symptomatic lateral discoid menisci.
- Intraoperative assessment of meniscal morphology (complete vs. incomplete types).
- Surgical treatment involving partial or complete meniscectomy and outcome assessment.
Main Results:
- Three siblings presented with bilateral symptomatic lateral discoid menisci.
- Operative findings included four complete and two incomplete discoid menisci.
- Five patients underwent meniscectomy, with four good outcomes reported after sufficient follow-up.
Conclusions:
- The etiology of discoid meniscus remains largely unknown, with limited explanation from phylogenetic and ontogenetic studies.
- Genetic factors appear to play a minor role in this familial case.
- Surgical management, including partial meniscectomy, can yield good results for symptomatic discoid meniscus.