Characteristic features of injuries in the knee in women.

There are anatomic and physiologic differences in the knee joints and supporting structures of males and females. These variations are most noticeable in the reduced muscle mass and increased mobility in women. Injuries to the knee in women differ from men because of these variations. Meniscal lesions are uncommon in women but sprains and strains occur more frequently. Internal derangements of the knee in women are often the result of their increased hypermobility. These include recurrent patellar subluxation and popliteal cysts. Meniscal tears in females are over-diagnosed and may result in unnecessary meniscectomies even in the hands of experienced orthopaedic surgeons. Arthrography and arthroscopy should increase diagnostic accuracy. Injuries in the knee in women may be reduced by better education as to the type of injury sustained, by better protection to the knee in supporting activities and by screening those women who might be more susceptible to injury.