If the history and physical findings indicate that a tear is present, arthroscopic surgery may be indicated for treatment. Circled area contains an area of normal meniscus. Circled area contains an image of a portion of the meniscus. The light center area represents the tear. Side view of knee.
Circled area contains an image of a portion of the meniscus.
The red area is a color enhanced tear of the meniscus. This is called an arthrotomy in medical terms. The arthrotomy method of doing surgery has been gradually replaced by a procedure known as arthroscopy. This is still a surgical procedure, but with several differences. Fluid is then inserted into the joint to distend the joint and to allow for the visualization of the structures within that joint.