Posterior Medial Meniscus Root Tears: Clinical Implications, Surgical Management, and Post-operative Rehabilitation Considerations.

Abstract

Tears of the posterior medial meniscus root (PMMR) are common in older patients and reportedly contribute to rapid joint degeneration over time. Recognition of these tear types and the appropriate diagnosis through clinical exam and diagnostic imaging have improved significantly in recent years, as have surgical techniques to address them. Standardized post-operative rehabilitation protocols specific to PMMR repair have not been established or well understood in the scientific literature. Thus, clinicians have little guidance for managing post-operative care. Upon diagnosis of a root tear, appropriate surgical treatment, with appreciation for native anatomy and function of the meniscus root, is a critical first step for recovery. Post-operative rehabilitation protocols should account for biomechanical considerations unique to root tears, because they can destabilize the entire meniscus and compromise its native function. Rehabilitation specialists can apply known science regarding the influence of joint motion, muscle strengthening activities, gait, squatting, and progressive loading activities on the healing meniscus to guide post-operative recovery. This knowledge, complemented with existing foundational principles for sound post-operative rehabilitation, can optimize recovery for patients following PMMR repair. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to explore clinical questions related to 1) PMMR injury epidemiology, 2) diagnosis and surgical management of PMMR tears, and 3) critical considerations for safe and effective post-operative rehabilitation. Level of Evidence: 5.