Meniscal Mechanics: Load Transmission, Injury & Resection

In this episode of BoardsCast, we dive into the function, failure, and surgical decision-making around the meniscus — a structure that can make or break long-term stifle outcomes.

We cover:

• Meniscal anatomy and the unique role of the medial meniscus
• How hoop stress and load distribution maintain joint health
• The impact of cruciate rupture on meniscal mechanics
• Why meniscal injuries persist post-TPLO — and how to detect them
• Surgical approaches: partial meniscectomy, meniscal release, and what’s lost with each
• Board-focused insight on conservative management and long-term prognosis

If you’ve ever debated whether to cut, release, or leave it alone — this episode will help you understand what the meniscus really does, and how to protect it.

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Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction: The Meniscus as the Knee's Vital Cushion
• 1:02 Meniscal Mechanics: Load Bearing and Hoop Tension
• 2:31 Medial Meniscus Attachments and Vulnerability
• 3:33 The CCL Connection: Meniscal Tears in Unstable Knees
• 4:51 Types of Meniscal Tears and Diagnostic Probing
• 5:19 Clinical Signs: The Click and Worsening Lameness
• 6:22 Post-Operative Meniscal Tears (Post-Tears)
• 7:17 Surgical Treatment Principle: Preserve Functional Biomechanics
• 7:48 Partial Meniscectomy: The Preferred Technique
• 8:45 Total Meniscectomy: When it's Necessary and Its Downsides
• 10:01 Meniscal Release: A Preventative Strategy
• 11:28 Long-Term Outcomes: Osteoarthritis and Incomplete Regeneration
• 13:22 Board-Style Question: Post-Operative Lameness and Meniscal Tear Diagnosis
• 14:57 Flashcard Recap: Key Takeaways
• 16:36 Conclusion: The Ongoing Challenge of Joint Restoration