ARTHROSCOPIC EVALUATION AND MANAGEMENT OF MENISCAL INJURIES OF THE KNEE.

50 cases of isolated meniscal injuries of the knee were evaluated and managed arthroscopically. 56% of the cases were in 25-35 year age group. In 80% of the cases military training and contact sports was the mode of injury. Maximum (42%) patients reported late (> 2 years) after the injury. On presentation, they had an average Lysholm knee score of 53.76. Medial meniscal lesion was seen in 74%. Commonest pattern of tear encountered was a longitudinal tear (40%). Depending on pattern and extent of lesion, partial meniscectomy (60%), subtotal meniscectomy (14%) and total meniscectomy (26%) were performed. Patients were followed up at six months and one year. The average Lysholm score at 6 months was 83.3 and at one year 79.5. At one year, the patient satisfaction level was 82% and patients who underwent partial meniscectomy had the best results.