Current Concepts in Management of Medial Meniscus Injury in the Athlete

Abtract Purpose of Review This review explores the current evidence for the management of medial meniscus injuries in athletes. Recent Findings Musculoskeletal ultrasound has emerged as a promising tool for diagnosis of medial meniscal injuries. Intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have shown promising results for the management of medical meniscal tears. While meniscectomy offers faster return to sport, the risk of osteoarthritis is significantly increased compared to meniscal repair. Improvements in surgical techniques have significantly improved the success rate of meniscal repairs in the past decade. Summary Medial meniscus injuries can often be diagnosed clinically, and advanced imaging can help guide management. The first-line treatment for degenerative tears is conservative management, including oral medications, rehabilitation, and intraarticular injections. For acute traumatic tears of the root and in the vascular zone, meniscal repair is preferred. Meniscectomy is reserved for irreparable and chronic symptomatic tears.