Lateral Meniscus, Superior View

Description

Seen from a superior perspective, the lateral meniscus sits on the lateral tibial plateau as a near circular, C shaped wedge of fibrocartilage, its thicker peripheral rim facing the joint capsule and its thinner free edge curving toward the intercondylar area. Anteriorly and posteriorly, the anterior horn and posterior horn approach their tibial attachments near the intercondylar eminence, framing the tibial spine region. Laterally, the meniscocapsular margin tracks along the outer edge of the plateau, while medially the inner margin opens toward the tibial articular surface and central compartment. The femoral condyle would articulate superior to this surface in vivo. Meniscal morphology matters because the lateral meniscus is typically more mobile than the medial, influenced by its capsular attachments and its relationship to the popliteus tendon at the posterolateral corner. That mobility can change tear patterns, with discoid lateral meniscus and associated peripheral detachments presenting differently than classic longitudinal tears seen medially. For arthroscopy, a top down view helps orient the surgeon to horn position, the lateral compartment working space, and the tibial plateau footprint where meniscal root injuries can destabilize load transmission. Use this illustration for teaching knee joint anatomy in musculoskeletal medicine, orthopaedic surgery, and sports medicine courses, or to support a figure on lateral compartment biomechanics, meniscal tears, and meniscal root repair planning. It also fits patient facing education when explaining why lateral meniscal symptoms may worsen with pivoting rather than simple flexion. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.