The basic science of human knee menisci: structure, composition, and function

Fox AJ, Bedi A, Rodeo SA · Sports Health

The menisci are fibrocartilaginous wedges whose circumferential collagen architecture converts axial compression into hoop tension. Vascularity recedes with age: the developing meniscus is supplied across its whole width, and by adulthood only the peripheral 10% to 30% retains a blood supply, the rest depending on diffusion. That peripheral vascular border is the red zone, thicker, convex and attached to the capsule.

Population

Review of meniscal anatomy, ultrastructure, biochemistry, vascular and neural anatomy, biomechanical function, maturation and imaging

Limitations

A narrative review with no systematic search and no primary data of its own. Cited for structure and vascular anatomy, never for the effect of an operation. No funding or conflict-of-interest statement appears in the article.