[THE EVOLUTION IN TREATING MENISCAL TEARS--FROM RESECTION TO SUTURING]

The meniscus has an important biomechanical role in the normal function of the knee including load bearing, shock absorption and joint stability. Tears of the meniscus are one of the common sports injuries. The knowledge that total meniscectomy causes early development of degenerative changes has raised the prevalence of meniscal tear repair in order to preserve as much as possible of the meniscal tissue. The type of tear (degenerative of traumatic), shape and location have a critical effect on healing ability after suture of the tear and thus will determine the treatment plan.