Meniscuses are C-shaped structures on the inside and outside of the knee joint. The most important task of the meniscus is to protect the cartilages by reducing the pressure on the knee joint. They also contribute to the proper functioning of the joint. Taking meniscus causes rapid cartilage wear.
HOW IS THE MENISCAL TEARS
The appearance of meniscus tears is different in young and old. The most important reason for meniscus tears in young people is sudden movements in sports events. The foot develops in place, meniscus rupture due to index rotation. In the elderly, it gradually develops in the chronic zone. First of all menstruation begins to wear, if not properly treated these wears, turns into tears.
WHAT DOES THE SYMPTOMS OF MENISCUS DISABILITIES HAVE?
When a sudden meniscus ruptures, there is severe pain, stinging, and swelling of the knee. Later on, this pain becomes more frequent, with pain, pain and sometimes knee tying. Particularly, getting down the stairs is quite difficult and painful. From time to time recurrent swelling occurs. Severe pain occurs with the finger on the side of the torn meniscus.
DIAGNOSIS OF MENISCUS TEARS
The most important thing for the diagnosis is the examination. With a careful examination, the meniscus is suspected of tearing. MRI is required for definite diagnosis. MR is determined which meniscus, which is damaged at any time. In the tapes, joint ultrasound is preferred. With the joint ultrasound, the condition of the menisci, the inflammation in the joint and the condition of the healing are followed. In some cases where MR is inadequate or not performed, both arthroscopy can provide both diagnosis and treatment.
MENISCUS TREATMENT
The treatment of meniscus tears depends on the age, occupation and complaint of the patient. Active athletes usually require surgery. In younger patients who are not active lifestyles, firstly non-surgical treatments should be considered. Meniscus tears in the elderly patients do not require surgery.
As a general rule, there is no need for amelioration if there is no complaint in meniscal tears.
Proper and high quality non-operative treatments are necessary and sufficient in most of the meniscus injuries.
However, in some patients, whatever we do, we can not resolve pain and inflammation in the series. In these patients closed surgical methods for meniscus rupture should be performed. In these surgeries, the meniscus complex was once used. However, in recent years, the understanding of the importance of the meniscus has become more apparent, and only the torn ones are erected as much as possible. If it is not possible to sew the tear, only the torn part is removed. As a last resort meniscus is all taken.
THE REASONS OF REQUIRED MENISCUS SURGERY
Taking meniscuses causes the cartilage wear out within 5 years. The torn-out meniscus protection is essential. Therefore, in recent years, work on meniscus transplantation has been intensified. Though it has not yet reached a certain conclusion, the developments in this area are promising.
OPERATIVE TREATMENT AND PHYSICAL TREATMENT OF MENISCUSES
Treatment of meniscus tears, intra-articular hyaluronic acid injection, intra-articular , joint inflammation clearing, pain treatment methods, physical therapy and exercise treatment. In addition, kinesiological banding, knee brace may be required. The control of the response to treatment is very useful to be done with joint ultrasound.