Microvasculature of the human meniscus

Abstract

The microvascular anatomy of the medial and lateral menisci of the human knee was investigated in 20 cadaver specimens by histology and tissue clearing (Spalteholz) techniques. It was found that the menisci are supplied by branches of the lateral, medial, and middle genicular arteries. A perimeniscal capillary plexus originating in the capsular and synovial tissues of the joint supplies the peripheral 10-25% of the menisci. A peripheral, vascular, synovial fringe extends a short distance over both the femoral and tibial surfaces of the menisci but does not contribute any vessels to the meniscal stroma. The posterolateral aspect of the lateral meniscus adjacent to the popliteal tendon is devoid of penetrating peripheral vessels as well as a synovial fringe. The anterior and posterior horn attachments of the menisci are covered with vascular synovial tissue and appear to have a good blood supply.