EVALUATING THE EFFECT OF VARIOUS MENISCAL ATTACHMENTS AND MATERIAL PROPERTIES ON FEMORAL BONE STRESS

In this paper, several finite element models of an equine stifle joint with varying meniscal properties and attachments are compared to understand the effects of meniscal attachment complexity and material property changes on bone stresses. We found that the complexity in the meniscal attachment is critical when evaluating tensile stresses in the bone. We also demonstrate that simplified material properties may be justified when the relationship between each material property and the desired output variables is well understood. The choice of the most efficient, and yet appropriate, meniscal modeling method depends on the goals of the model.

Meniscal root tear repair: why, when and how?

The integrity of the meniscal root insertions is fundamental to preserve correct knee kinematics and avoid degenerative changes of the knee. Injuries to the meniscal attachments can lead to meniscal extrusion, decreased contact surface, increased cartilage stress, and ultimately articular degeneration. Recent and well designed studies have clarified the anatomy and biomechanics of the medial and lateral meniscal roots. Although the treatment of meniscal root tears is still controversial, many different techniques have been described for root repair. The goal of this review is to summarize the existing knowledge regarding meniscal root tears, including anatomy, biomechanics and imaging. In addition, the most common surgical techniques, together with the clinical outcomes, are described.

Neural Structures within Human Meniscofemoral Ligaments: A Cadaveric Study

Aim. To investigate the existence of neural structures within the meniscofemoral ligaments (MFLs) of the human knee. Methods. The MFLs from 8 human cadaveric knees were harvested. 5 μm sections were H&E-stained and examined under light microscopy. The harvested ligaments were then stained using an S100 monoclonal antibody utilising the ABC technique to detect neural components. Further examination was performed on 60–80 nm sections under electron microscopy. Results. Of the 8 knees, 6 were suitable for examination. From these both MFLs existed in 3, only anterior MFLs were present in 2, and an isolated posterior MFL existed in 1. Out of the 9 MFLs, 4 demonstrated neural structures on light and electron microscopy and this was confirmed with S100 staining. The ultrastructure of these neural components was morphologically similar to mechanoreceptors. Conclusion. Neural structures are present in MFLs near to their meniscal attachments. It is likely that the meniscofemoral ligaments contribute not only as passive secondary restraints to posterior draw but more importantly to proprioception and may therefore play an active role in providing a neurosensory feedback loop. This may be particularly important when the primary restraint has reduced function as in the posterior cruciate ligament—deficient human knee.