The multi-site volume of the meniscus in nuclear magnetic resonance images of children demonstrates an age-related increase.

Backgrond: The meniscus plays a pivotal role in knee joint function, and it is widely recognized that precise trimming or suturing of the meniscus yields superior outcomes. However, treatment standards for pediatric meniscal injuries cannot be directly extrapolated to adults. This study utilized magnetic resonance imaging data to assess the width and height of the meniscus at multiple sites in children across different age groups, aiming to investigate age-related growth and development patterns of the meniscus and contribute to promote treatment guidelines for pediatric patients.Data and METHODS: Retrospective collection of magnetic resonance imaging data from pediatric patients treated at our hospital between 2015 and 2023 was conducted. Exclusion criteria encompassed meniscal injuries, deformities, as well as synovial accumulation related to knee joint diseases that do not represent normal meniscal status. Measurements were taken for the width and height of both medial and lateral menisci at multiple sites, followed by statistical analysis correlating these measurements with age.Results: Meniscal volume demonstrated a significant increase with age (P < 0.01). Sites showing statistically significant volume increases were observed in 75% of cases aged 3–11 years old; conversely, no statistically significant volume increases were found in 91.7% of cases aged 12–17 years old. When comparing symmetry between medial and lateral menisci sites, it was noted that lateral menisci exhibited significantly higher measurement values (P < 0.01), albeit with a small mean difference.Conclusions: As individuals matured, there was a trend towards centralized transition from immature to mature volumes across different sites within the meniscus; this growth tends to stabilize around 11–12 years old before approaching an adult-like shape at 15–17 years old. Prior to this stage, the volume falls below adult standards. While there was a statistical difference when comparing volumes between corresponding inner and outer sites on each side of the knee joint's central axis, this disparity was not deemed clinically significant.