View source for Meniscus and ligament knee injuries

==Background==
{{Knee ligaments}}

==Clinical Features==
*History of locking episodes suggests a meniscal tear
*A sensation of popping at the time of injury suggests ligamentous injury, probably complete rupture of a ligament (third-degree tear)
*Episodes of giving way are consistent with some degree of knee instability and may indicate patellar subluxation or ligamentous rupture
*Rapid onset (within two hours) of a large, tense effusion suggests rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament or fracture of the tibial plateau with resultant hemarthrosis, whereas slower onset (24 to 36 hours) of a mild to moderate effusion is consistent with meniscal injury or ligamentous sprain. Recurrent knee effusion after activity is consistent with meniscal injury. 

{{ACL clinical features}}

===PCL===
*Posterior Drawer Sign
**Patient supine, knee flexed 90', attempt to displace tibia from femur in backward direction
===Meniscus===
*Symptoms
**"Locking" of joint or sensation of popping, clicking, or snapping
*Signs
**Effusions that occur after activity
**Joint-line tenderness
*Tests
**McMurray, grind test only 50% Sn

==Differential Diagnosis==
{{Knee DDX}}

==Evaluation==
[[File:Segond.jpg|thumb|Segond Avulsion Fracture (ACL tear)]]
{{Ottawa knee rules}}
{{Knee x-rays}}

===Diagnosis of Ligamentous and/or Meniscus Injury=== 
*Normally clinically diagnosed initially or referred for re-exam in 4-5 days after decrease of swelling
**Primary medical doctor or orthopedics may later use MRI for definitive diagnosis

==Management==
*Knee brace, ice, elevation, ambulation as soon as comfortable
**Full knee immobilization generally not indicated for single ligament injuries

==Disposition==
*Discharge with orthopedic surgery follow-up

==See Also==
*[[Knee Diagnoses]]
*[[Acute knee injury]]

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Orthopedics]]
[[Category:Sports Medicine]]