Meniscus structure and function.

True appreciation of the structure and function of the knee joint meniscus is a relatively recent occurrence. Even decades after studies were published documenting the detrimental effects of meniscectomoy such as osteoarthritis, many physicians continued to advocate total meniscectomy for even minor meniscal pathology. Fortunately, the clinical approach to these problems has undergone dramatic change over the past 20 years. A review of the anatomy and ultrastructure of the meniscus, and its relationship to normal function in terms of load transmission, shock absorption, joint stability, lubrication, and nutrition will enable a better understanding of the rationale for meniscus preservation techniques, including meniscal repair and meniscal transplant.