The width of a human meniscus varies depending on its location in the knee joint, specifically whether it is the medial or lateral meniscus.
Understanding Meniscus Dimensions
The knee joint contains two C-shaped pieces of cartilage called menisci: the medial meniscus (on the inner side of the knee) and the lateral meniscus (on the outer side of the knee). These structures play a crucial role in distributing weight, providing stability, and absorbing shock within the knee. Their dimensions, including width, are important for their function and are often measured in anatomical studies.
Reported Widths Based on Research
According to research providing specific anatomical measurements of human menisci, the width differs slightly between the medial and lateral types. Based on one study [1], the reported average widths are as follows:
- The human medial meniscus has an average width of 31.6 ± 3 mm.
- The human lateral meniscus has an average width of 31.7 ± 3.7 mm.
These figures represent the mean width along with the standard deviation, indicating the typical range of variation observed in the study population.
Summary of Human Meniscus Dimensions [1]
For a comprehensive view of the dimensions reported in the referenced study, see the table below:
| Meniscus Type | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medial Meniscus | 46.8 ± 3.7 | 31.6 ± 3 | 9.3 ± 1.4 |
| Lateral Meniscus | 35.3 ± 2.8 | 31.7 ± 3.7 | 9.9 ± 1.4 |
As shown, while the width measurements are quite similar between the two menisci types, other dimensions like length show more significant differences.
Importance of Meniscus Dimensions
The specific size and shape of the menisci are critical for proper knee function. Variations in dimensions, whether due to individual anatomy or injury, can impact how the knee bears weight and moves, potentially leading to issues like pain or instability. Understanding these dimensions is important in fields such as biomechanics, orthopedic surgery, and medical imaging.
