Arthroscopic assessment of a meniscal tear classifies it by location relative to the vascular supply. Tears in which zone have the best prognosis for primary healing after repair?
- A Red-red zone at the peripheral third ✓
- B Red-white zone at the middle third
- C White-white zone at the inner third
- D Central avascular zone near the intercondylar attachment
Correct answer: A. Red-red zone at the peripheral third
Explanation
Meniscal vascularity comes from the perimeniscal capillary plexus supplied by the genicular arteries, penetrating only the outer third of the meniscus. Peripheral red-red tears therefore have rich blood supply and heal well after repair, while white-white tears in the inner avascular two thirds are usually treated by partial meniscectomy rather than repair. The middle third has intermediate healing potential.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.