[Topography of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus--arthroscopico-anatomic study].

The topographic relation of the popliteus bursa to the peripheral rim of the lateral meniscus is described with particular attention to the arthroscopic appearance. The arthroscopic findings are compared to sections of knee joints obtained after amputation. As a constant result we found a peripheral separation of the lateral meniscus in the posterior part which extends for 2-3 cm. In consequence of these physiological defects in the superior and inferior attachments to the joint capsule the popliteus bursa communicates with the central part of the joint cavity on the femoral and in the majority of cases on the tibial level of the lateral meniscus. These anatomical conditions which appear arthroscopically as a peripheral longitudinal tear might be confounded with a traumatic or degenerative lesion of the lateral meniscus.