What is a discoid meniscus?
Apr 24, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Discoid meniscus is primarily a developmental abnormality of the meniscus, most commonly occurring on the lateral side, and can be classified as incomplete or complete. A complete discoid meniscus typically occurs in adolescents and is prone to cause knee joint tears following injury. In contrast, an incomplete discoid meniscus usually affects middle-aged and elderly individuals and may result in discoid meniscal tears.
Discoid meniscus is primarily a developmental abnormality of the meniscus, most commonly occurring in the lateral meniscus. The specific analysis is as follows:
Discoid meniscus is a relatively rare meniscal deformity and can be classified into incomplete and complete types. Complete discoid meniscus usually occurs in adolescents and is prone to cause knee joint tears following injury. In contrast, incomplete discoid meniscus typically affects middle-aged and elderly individuals and may result in discoid meniscus tears. It most frequently involves the lateral meniscus but can also occur bilaterally. If the discoid meniscus does not produce obvious symptoms, surgical treatment is generally not recommended, and conservative management is preferred. However, if symptoms such as pain, locking, clicking, or limited extension occur, analgesic medications such as loxoprofen sodium dispersible tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or celecoxib capsules may be used under medical guidance.
During treatment, attention should also be given to rehabilitation exercises, particularly strengthening quadriceps muscle contraction. Patients should avoid trauma and prolonged chronic strain; surgical intervention is recommended if symptoms worsen. In daily life, adequate rest is important, painful movements should be avoided, and physical activity should be reduced.
