Most commonly associated with horizontal tears
Seen in 1% meniscectomies
Intrameniscal cyst
Uncommon, represent intrameniscal fluid collection
Associated with tear
Seen at the level of the joint line
Secondary to trauma, degeneration or meniscectomy
Low on T1 and high on T2, T2* and STIR
Blood and gelatin may change signal
May be loculated or septated
Lateral:
5 times more common than medial ones
90% are associated with horizontal tears
Commonly seen anterior to LCL or between LCL and popliteus
Medial:
Tend to be larger than lateral
May dissect joint capsule or MCL
Commonly deep to MCL or posteromedial corner deep to posterior oblique ligament
Differentials:
Osteophyte spurring, synovial cyst, tibiofibular cyst, busristis, masses
Parameniscal cyst
Most common
Seen at the periphery of the meniscus
Synovial cyst
Rare
Not associated with meniscal tear
Represent cystic outpouching of the joint capsule
