Traumatology. Damage to the meniscus of the knee joint

The knee joint consists of the patella and the tibia. Its surface is covered with cartilaginous tissue, which has a number of strong ligaments in the structure. Extension and flexion of the knee is accompanied by a slip, which is provided by the joint fluid and the synovial membrane. Stability of the joint during movement is provided by ligaments, its muscles and cartilages inside (menisci). The cartilage functions as a "shock absorber". When walking, they shrink, changing shape.

Damage to the meniscus of the knee joint is one of the most common types of joint injuries. In general, they are subject to athletes. There are two types of meniscus. The internal is connected with the lateral bunch, differs relative static. External cartilage is more mobile. The connection between them is provided by a transverse ligament. Most often, damage to the internal meniscus of the knee joint. It can be acute or chronic. Accordingly, the symptoms also appear.

Damage to the meniscus of the knee joint is accompanied by a sharp pain in the region of the entire knee. Then there is its localization with the external or internal (depending on the type of injured cartilage) side. The motor ability of the patient becomes sharply limited. He may not feel or feel a slight pain in his bent leg. The pain increases when you try to unbend it. In cases of damage to the knee joint meniscus , an increase (swelling) of the knee is possible .

Diagnosis of the injury is based on examination and detailed questioning of the patient. Carrying out fluoroscopy in such cases is impractical due to the transparency of the cartilage for X-rays. Detection of the meniscus injury of the knee joint is performed by means of MRI or endoscopic arthroscopy.

The first aid in case of trauma includes the application of a fixation bus, anesthesia and transportation of the patient to a traumatologist.

Treatment for knee joint meniscus damage can be conservative or surgical.

Conservative therapy includes the removal of blood (if necessary) from the injured area. Then the gypsum is applied for four weeks. After its removal, restorative therapy is performed.

In a number of uses of arthroscopy. This diagnostic and low-traumatic treatment method is considered to be the most effective for today. Carrying out arthroscopy allows not only to examine the damaged joint cavity, but also, if possible, to sew the injured cartilage. If there is no such possibility, the removal (complete or partial) is performed. Removal is also possible for arthroscopy. In the most severe cases, an arthrotomy is performed (open surgery).

In some cases, joint puncture is performed, during which a solution of novocaine is administered. Then, the patient lying in the horizontal position is resting the damaged cartilage. At the same time, the doctor performs the actions opposite to those that led to trauma. After the cartilage rises into place, all joint movements are restored. However, the treatment does not end there. The leg (bent at a certain angle) is fixed with a plaster bandage.

From the time of treatment and the application of gypsum to its removal, the patient should be at rest for three weeks.

At the end of this period, therapeutic exercise and physiotherapy are prescribed.

To prevent injuries, doctors recommend caution when making sudden movements, walking, running, descending and climbing the stairs. When actively practicing sports, it is necessary to use fixative bandages or elastic bandages. Women are recommended to use more stable shoes.