Lateral Meniscal Variants: Evaluation and Treatment

Abstract

The normal lateral meniscus is morphologically more variable than the medial meniscus. The abnormal lateral meniscus also varies with respect to size, shape, and stability. Variations can occur in patients of all ages. The underlying causes of lateral meniscal abnormalities are multifactorial. The spectrum of abnormalities includes the most common variant, discoid lateral meniscus, as well as less common conditions, such as a lateral meniscal variant with absence of the posterior coronary ligament. Treatment should be based on the severity of symptoms and the type of pathologic lesion.