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Is immediate surgery needed for discoid meniscus in child?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My son aged 7 has had a snapping sound from the left knee lately without complaining of any pain. He had an MRI done on his left knee. The MRI opinion is as follows: There is a discoid lateral meniscus, significant swelling of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus, and intrameniscal abnormal signal intensity indicating a degenerative tear. Does it mean that surgery is needed to correct this? If yes, then should surgery be done soon? Is there any other possible treatment to avoid surgery?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern regarding surgical management and also, because of the fact there is no pain. Surgical management is indicated in case of symptomatic discoid meniscus and a popping or snapping sound is an indication for surgery. It can be managed by arthroscopic surgery with minimal incision. Surgery will be required sooner or later. The earlier the surgery is carried out for a symptomatic discoid meniscus, the better it is for the joint.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Sumit Chawla

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At December 29, 2016
Reviewed AtApril 26, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sumit Chawla
Dr. Sumit Chawla

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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