Horizontal Cleavage and Radial Meniscus Tears: A Review of Treatment Options, Surgical Techniques, and Outcomes

Abstract

The meniscus plays an important role in resisting and distributing axial loads and has a chondroprotective function. Meniscus injuries are common with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 9% to 12%. Over the last decade, the knowledge and awareness around meniscus injuries has increased and there is better understanding on the consequences of different treatment of meniscus injuries. These were historically often treated with nonoperative treatment or partial or subtotal meniscectomy, but developments in diagnosis, surgical techniques and outcomes have changed this paradigm. Horizontal cleavage tears are often located in the medial meniscus and benefit from meniscus repair as this decreases the peak stresses on the cartilage. Radial tears are most often located in the lateral meniscus – excluding posterior horn medial meniscus tears – and lead to complete loss of meniscus function and should also be treated with meniscus repair. In this overview article, the epidemiology, different treatment options, surgical techniques, rehabilitation and surgical outcomes of horizontal cleavage and radial meniscus tears are discussed.