[The meniscus from embryonal and functional points of view (author's transl)]

The menisci are not secondary developments of the joint capsule. Rather they develop quite separately from the parenchyma, independently of the joint capsule, that lies in the interrupted zone of the central bar of the primary anlage of the extremities. In this functional unit of the knee joint, only selective intervention must be carried out in predisposition to disturbances, symptoms of disease or injury, and not unplanned interference. Only then will the joint become capable of carrying a load once more and be spared from further secondary damage. Consequently the die is already cast at the first examination for a systematic and successful treatment.