Derangement of posterior horn of medial meniscus due to old tear or injury digital illustration

Derangement of posterior horn of medial meniscus due to old tear or injury Save


ICD-10 code: M23.22

Chapter: Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue

Derangement of posterior horn of medial meniscus due to old tear or injury

Derangement of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus is a common injury that occurs due to an old tear or injury. The medial meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thighbone and the shinbone. The posterior horn is the back part of the meniscus, which is more prone to injury due to the way it attaches to the knee joint.

Symptoms of a derangement of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint. The pain may be felt on the inside of the knee, and it may be aggravated by activities such as walking, running, or jumping. In some cases, the knee may also feel unstable or give way.

Diagnosis of a derangement of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus is typically made through a physical examination and imaging tests such as an MRI. Treatment options may include conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus.

  1. Rest: Rest is essential to allow the knee joint to heal. Avoid activities that aggravate the symptoms, and use crutches if necessary to avoid putting weight on the affected knee.
  2. Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help to reduce pain and swelling. Use an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  3. Compression: Wrapping the knee with an elastic bandage can help to reduce swelling and provide support to the joint.
  4. Elevation: Elevating the affected leg above heart level can help to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Physical therapy may also be recommended to help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and improve flexibility. This can help to improve the stability of the knee joint and reduce the risk of future injuries.

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. This may involve a minimally invasive procedure known as arthroscopy, which uses small incisions and a camera to view the inside of the knee joint.

In conclusion, a derangement of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus can be a painful and debilitating injury. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients are able to recover and return to their normal activities. If you are experiencing symptoms of a knee injury, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and appropriate