Lateral meniscus is less prone to injury than medial meniscus because of the following except
Menisci are two fibrocailaginous discs. They are shaped like crescents. They deepen the aicular surfaces of the condyles of tibia, and paially divide joint cavity into upper and lower compaments.-upper compament:flexion and extension-lower compament: rotation MEDIAL MENISCUS: Nearly semicircular Wider behind than in front Its peripheral margin is adherent to the deep pa of tibial collateral ligament.LATERAL MENISCUS:Circular The posterior end of the meniscus is attached to the medial condyle of femur through two meniscofemoral ligaments.The tendon of popliteus and capsule separate this meniscus from fibular collateral ligament.The mobility of posterior end of this meniscus is controlled by popliteus and the two meniscofemoral ligaments. INJURIES TO MENISCUS:-Occurs in slightly flexed knee. The meniscus may get separated from the capsule or may be torn longitudinally( bucket handle tear).Medial meniscus is more vulnerable to injury than the lateral because of its fixity to the tibial collateral ligament, and because of greater excursion during rotatory movements. The lateral meniscus is protected by the popliteus which pulls it backward so that it is not crushed between the aicular surfaces. {Reference BDC 6E vol 2 pg 140-143}
Lateral meniscus is less mobile than medial meniscus
Lateral meniscus is opened outwards by the popliteus
Lateral meniscus is more adapted to sustain injury
Lateral meniscus undergoes less excursion during rotatory movement
Lower limb