What is a consequence of meniscal removal (meniscectomy) on knee function?

What is a consequence of meniscal removal (meniscectomy) on knee function?

• A. It reduces knee shock absorption
• B. It increases patellar tracking
• C. It increases knee ROM
• D. It cures knee instability

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how the menisci protect the knee during loading. They act as shock absorbers and help distribute axial loads over a larger contact area, converting some of the compressive force into hoop stresses that stabilize and cushion the joint. When part or all of a meniscus is removed, that cushioning and load-distribution capability is diminished. The result is higher peak contact stresses on the articular cartilage and less dampening of impact during activities, which can accelerate wear and contribute to pain and early osteoarthritis. Patellar tracking is influenced mainly by patellofemoral mechanics and alignment, not directly by meniscal integrity, so increased tracking is not a typical consequence of meniscectomy. Knee range of motion is not inherently increased by removing meniscal tissue and may even be limited by pain or joint surface changes. Knee instability is not cured by meniscal removal; if anything, partial meniscectomy can slightly worsen instability in some situations due to loss of joint congruity and containment.

The key idea is how the menisci protect the knee during loading. They act as shock absorbers and help distribute axial loads over a larger contact area, converting some of the compressive force into hoop stresses that stabilize and cushion the joint. When part or all of a meniscus is removed, that cushioning and load-distribution capability is diminished. The result is higher peak contact stresses on the articular cartilage and less dampening of impact during activities, which can accelerate wear and contribute to pain and early osteoarthritis.

Patellar tracking is influenced mainly by patellofemoral mechanics and alignment, not directly by meniscal integrity, so increased tracking is not a typical consequence of meniscectomy. Knee range of motion is not inherently increased by removing meniscal tissue and may even be limited by pain or joint surface changes. Knee instability is not cured by meniscal removal; if anything, partial meniscectomy can slightly worsen instability in some situations due to loss of joint congruity and containment.