Strain-related long-term changes in the menisci in asymptomatic athletes

In 82 asymptomatic subjects aged 8-62 years we evaluated the menisci by magnetic resonance imaging [MRI; 1.0 tesla; spin-echo (SE 700/20), PS (partial saturation; 500/10), STIR (short time inversion recovery sequence; 1600/130/30)]. For grading the degeneration of the meniscus we used a standard classification (grades 0-4). MR findings were correlated with the patients' age, weight, profession, and athletic activity. Statistic analysis revealed a correlation between athletic activity and meniscal degeneration of both anterior horns and the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus. Especially the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus seems to be loaded during athletic activities. Correlation of meniscus degeneration with subjects' age showed an increase in grade 3 and grade 4 lesions with advancing age. Among subjects older than 50 years, grade 3 and 4 lesions were present in the SE sequence in 28.5% of cases, in PS sequences in 40.7% of case, and in STIR sequences in 25% of cases.

Athletic activity seems to load the anterior knee compartments, especially the lateral compartment. MRI shows meniscal lesions in a significant number of asymptomatic subjects, especially those older than 50 years.