[Meniscal lesion. A pre-osteoarthritic condition of the knee joint]

A close relationship between meniscal damage and articular cartilage exist. Likewise, (partial) meniscectomy may lead to the development of osteoarthritis (OA).

With a special emphasis on therapeutic consequences for orthopaedic surgeons, the structural and functional relationship between meniscal tears/extrusion and cartilage loss, and/or the effect of meniscectomy or meniscal repair on the development of OA, are emphasized.

A selective literature review with implementation of own research findings.

The close topographical and functional interplay between the menisci and the tibiofemoral cartilage is the basis for the clinically important relationship between meniscal damage and cartilage degeneration. In particular, due to its close connection to tibiofemoral OA, a degenerative meniscal lesion represents a pre-osteoarthritic condition. Meniscus extrusion is also often associated with tibiofemoral OA. Even large cartilage defects can cause meniscus lesions. Partial meniscectomy is strongly associated with the incidence and risk of progression of OA. Clinical results are particularly problematic after partial resection of the lateral meniscus. Although the use of arthroscopic partial resection for degenerative meniscal lesions has been controversially discussed, no long-term studies are available. A large number of studies emphasize the medium-term value of meniscus reconstruction compared to partial meniscus resection. Combined meniscus and cartilage damage are complex cases, and the value of a simultaneous therapy remains unclear.

Preserving the meniscus is the first step towards cartilage repair. Randomized and controlled studies will provide better information on the long-term outcomes of meniscal resection and repair with regard to OA development.