Analyzing meniscus horn lengths and concavity may assist in predicting risk of knee osteoarthritis

A recent study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology has shed light on the connection between meniscus shape features and the risk of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The researchers led by Kenneth T. Gao, BS from the University of California, San Francisco, explored how different meniscus shapes and morphologies may be associated with the progression of OA, providing valuable insights into potential risk factors for the condition.

The study utilized data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, which included imaging information from patients with existing knee OA or those at risk of developing it. The researchers analyzed 9,418 individual MRI scans to examine the characteristics of the knees, assigning Kellgren-Lawrence grades to indicate disease severity. The patients underwent radiography at baseline, followed by annual imaging assessments up to 48 months, and then every 2 years up to 96 months.

● The findings revealed that several meniscus shape features were linked to an increased risk of knee OA. Seven shape features between the medial and lateral menisci differed significantly between patients with and without OA. These factors included length-width ratios, horn lengths, root attachment angles, and concavity. The shape features indicating risk were associated with unique changes in cartilage thickness.

● The researchers also observed correlations between meniscal shapes and patient demographics, with gender being the most prevalent category. This data-driven approach provided a comprehensive understanding of common variations in meniscus geometry and expanded the knowledge of meniscus characteristics associated with the onset of OA. The study also uncovered novel shape features that had not been previously investigated in the context of OA risk.

● The study revealed localized longitudinal changes in cartilage thickness associated with each meniscus shape, adding granularity to the prognosis of cartilage degeneration. These findings could have significant implications for identifying individuals at higher risk of knee OA and may pave the way for targeted preventive strategies and interventions.

While meniscus injuries' links with knee OA have been established, this research takes a step further by identifying specific meniscus shape features that may serve as predictive indicators of the condition. With further investigation and validation, these findings could potentially lead to more personalized and effective management strategies for patients at risk of knee osteoarthritis.

Reference:

Gao KT, et al. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2023;doi:10.1002/art.42623