[Meniscus and cartilage damage]

It is well accepted that those meniscus lesions causing an internal derangement of the knee joint lead to chondromalacia. An operation is necessary to prevent progressive condylar cartilage damage. Menisci with minor traumatic tears and mild degeneration protect the joint surface. A removal is rarely indicated. The complete meniscectomy leads to a degenerative arthrosis and should be avoided. Partial meniscus removal minimizes subsequent degenerative changes.