Morphometric analysis of menisci in Nepalese population: A cadaveric study

Objectives: The knee joint’s menisci are wedge-shaped cartilages between the femoral condyles and tibial plateaus. In this study, we investigated and analyzed the diverse morphological variations of knee menisci in human cadavers. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 50 menisci of embalmed cadaveric knee joints from the Department of Anatomy of Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital between January 2024 and June 2024. The study examined the morphological variations of the medial and lateral menisci by measuring their circumferences, widths, and thicknesses. Using tools such as a measuring tape, non-elastic threads, metallic pins, and a digital vernier calliper, measurements were taken at three points: Anterior, middle, and posterior thirds. Results: Statistical analysis with a one-sample t -test in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences revealed significant differences between the menisci. The medial meniscus (MM) was predominantly crescent-shaped with a larger inner circumference ( P < 0.001), while the lateral meniscus (LM) was more C-shaped with a larger outer circumference ( P < 0.001). Width analysis showed the posterior third of the MM as the widest, whereas the middle third was the widest in the LM. Thickness measurements indicated the middle third as the thickest region in both menisci ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: This study confirms distinct structural differences between the medial and lateral menisci of the knee joint. Understanding these variations enhances diagnostic precision for meniscal injuries, aiding in tailored treatment approaches.