Peripheral tear of lateral meniscus, current injury, right knee digital illustration

Peripheral tear of lateral meniscus, current injury, right knee Save


ICD-10 code: S83.261

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Peripheral Tear of Lateral Meniscus: A Common Knee Injury

A peripheral tear of the lateral meniscus is a common knee injury that can occur due to twisting or sudden movements. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the bones in your knee joint. A peripheral tear affects the outer edge of the meniscus and can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee.

If you have a peripheral tear of the lateral meniscus, you may experience a popping or clicking sensation in your knee. You may also have difficulty bending or straightening your knee, and it may feel unstable. In some cases, the knee may lock, making it difficult to move.

Treatment Options

The treatment for a peripheral tear of the lateral meniscus depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, rest, ice, and physical therapy may be enough to relieve symptoms. However, if the tear is severe, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged tissue.

If surgery is required, your orthopedic surgeon may perform an arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera to guide the surgical instruments. During the procedure, the surgeon will either repair the tear using stitches or remove the damaged tissue. After surgery, you will need to follow a rehabilitation program to help you regain strength and flexibility in your knee.

Prevention

While it is impossible to prevent all knee injuries, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a peripheral tear of the lateral meniscus. These include:

  1. Wearing proper footwear that provides support and cushioning
  2. Stretching before and after exercise to improve flexibility
  3. Using proper technique when exercising or playing sports
  4. Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts
  5. Avoiding sudden, jerky movements that can put stress on your knee joint
Conclusion

A peripheral tear of the lateral meniscus is a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment. With proper care and prevention, you can reduce your risk of this type of injury and keep your knee healthy and strong.