Meniscus Root Tear: Extended Classification and Arthroscopic Repair Techniques

Abstract

The meniscus root is an attachment of the anterior and posterior horns of the meniscus onto the tibia, and its primary function is to prevent extrusion under axial load. Meniscus root tear constitutes 15% to 20% of meniscus tear. With the increased incidence of root tears being diagnosed commonly, many newer morphologic patterns of root tears have been detected, and the need to extend the conventional classification arises. At the same time, preserving the meniscus root necessitates novel techniques to repair this newer pattern. In this Technical Note, we describe the extended classification of root tears and arthroscopic repair techniques to achieve stable and secure fixation of meniscus roots.