The menisci are two wedge-shaped cartilage pieces located between the thighbone and shinbone, which act to stabilize the knee joint and act as shock absorbers. A meniscus tear is the most common knee injury in athletes, especially those involved in contact sports. A sudden bend or twist in your knee can cause the meniscus to tear. The elderly are more prone to degenerative meniscal tears as the cartilage wears out and weakens with age.

The treatment of a meniscal tear depends on the type, size, and location of the tear, as well as your age and activity level. If the tear is small, with damage limited to the outer edge of the meniscus, non-surgical treatment may be enough. However, if the symptoms persist, a knee arthroscopy is generally recommended for meniscal tears, which includes several surgical treatment options, such as meniscus removal (meniscectomy), repair, and replacement.