Meniscal surgery is commonplace. Patients who have had prior surgery may return for
additional imaging for continued or new pain, limited range of motion, or interval
injury. Accurate interpretation of postoperative imaging requires a clear understanding
of the normal meniscal anatomy and biomechanics. Surgical goals and current surgical
techniques impact the imaging appearance. These techniques are reviewed in the context
of the various meniscal tear patterns. Multiple imaging modalities may be used in
patient assessment with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging providing key information
regarding the integrity of the meniscal repair. Imagers need to be aware of the key
findings for a normal versus pathologic appearance to the postoperative meniscus as
well as other potential MR findings that may account for patient presentation.
Keywords
postoperative meniscus - partial meniscectomy - meniscal repair - magnetic resonance
imaging - magnetic resonance arthrography
