The objective of this prospective observational study was to determine the prevalence of isolated meniscus tears based on age, gender, type and location. Additionally, the study aimed to identify risk factors associated with meniscal injuries, including high body mass index (BMI), work-related activities (such as kneeling, squatting, climbing stairs, lifting heavy weights, prolonged standing and walking), smoking and alcohol consumption. The study spanned 72 weeks and included patients between the ages of 18-60 years with symptomatic knees and isolated meniscus injuries undergoing arthroscopy. Patient profiles, detailed histories and clinical examinations were conducted and documented. Clinical and arthroscopic findings were recorded in a standardized proforma and work-related activities were assessed using a questionnaire. Of the 72 cases included in the study, meniscal tears were found in 56% of males and 44% of females. Medial meniscus tears accounted for 64% of the cases, with red-white zone tears comprising 68% and posterior 1/3rd zone tears comprising 60%. Bucket-handle tears were reported by 28% of the patients, followed by horizontal tears at 25%. Among the identified risk factors, a high BMI was found in 62% of the population, including those who were overweight (25-29.9) and obese (30-34.9). Lateral meniscus tears were more common in females (78%) below 40 years of age and in males (73%) above 40 years of age. Isolated medial meniscus tears were less prevalent in younger females compared to males. The study observed that meniscal injuries were more common among individuals in their 4th and 5th decades of life. It was concluded that the medial meniscus was more prone to injury compared to the lateral meniscus and increasing age was associated with isolated medial meniscus injuries in both sexes. High BMI and work-related activities such as kneeling, squatting, prolonged standing and walking were found to have an impact on the occurrence of meniscal injuries
B. Raghunath Reddy, Pothuri Rishi Ram and Praveen Narayan. A Prospective Study of Isolated Meniscus Injuries in Stable Knees Undergoing Arthroscopy.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218\makrjms.2023.484.491
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218\makrjms.2023.484.491