Surgical Management of Symptomatic Discoid Meniscus: A Case Report and Review of Outcomes

Discoid meniscus is a congenital anomaly, most commonly affecting the lateral compartment of the knee, characterized by an abnormally thick, disc-shaped meniscus. While many individuals are asymptomatic, others experience knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms such as locking or clicking. These symptoms often arise due to tears or altered mechanics associated with the discoid shape. Advanced imaging, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is crucial for diagnosing discoid meniscus and assessing associated tears, as traditional X-rays offer limited diagnostic value. Surgical intervention, typically through arthroscopy, is often required for symptomatic cases to remove damaged tissue while preserving functional meniscal structures, preventing long-term joint degeneration. This case report discusses the management of a symptomatic discoid lateral meniscus in a 28-year-old male patient.

A 28-year-old male presented with a 6-month history of intermittent bilateral knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms exacerbated by physical activities such as running and jumping. Physical examination revealed joint line tenderness and positive McMurray and Apley grind tests on both knees. X-rays suggested a discoid meniscus, with widened joint space and changes in the femoral condyle and tibial plateau. MRI confirmed a complete discoid lateral meniscus with a central tear. The patient underwent arthroscopic resection of the symptomatic portion of the meniscus and meniscal balancing to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. Postoperatively, the patient reported significant symptom relief, returning to daily activities and sports within 3 months. At 1-year follow-up, there were no signs of recurrent tears or degenerative changes.

Arthroscopic resection and meniscal balancing are effective techniques for treating symptomatic discoid meniscus, enabling the removal of damaged tissue while preserving functional meniscus for long-term joint health. Early diagnosis, advanced imaging, and focused post-operative rehabilitation contribute to favorable outcomes, including the restoration of knee function and return to sports activities.