## Why option 1 is right The medial meniscus (structure **A**) is C-shaped and firmly attached to the joint capsule and medial collateral ligament (MCL). This firm attachment restricts its mobility, making it more susceptible to being trapped and torn during twisting injuries on a flexed, weight-bearing knee—accounting for approximately 70% of all meniscal tears. The "bucket handle" tear pattern (vertical longitudinal tear with displacement into the intercondylar notch) is a classic presentation of medial meniscal injury in young athletes, and the displaced fragment creates the characteristic "double PCL sign" on sagittal MRI. This anatomical constraint is the fundamental reason medial meniscal tears are more common than lateral meniscal tears (Apley 10e). ## Why each distractor is wrong - **Option 2**: While true that the lateral meniscus is O-shaped and more mobile, this is the reason it is LESS commonly torn, not more. The question asks why structure **A** (medial meniscus) tears are MORE common. This option reverses the logic. - **Option 3**: The medial meniscus does not have a larger surface area than the lateral meniscus. Both menisci have similar load-bearing roles, and surface area is not the primary determinant of tear susceptibility. Attachment pattern and mobility are the key factors. - **Option 4**: Both menisci are located in the tibiofemoral joint and experience similar rotational forces. The lateral meniscus is not protected by virtue of location; rather, its greater mobility allows it to escape compressive forces during rotation. **High-Yield:** Medial meniscus = C-shaped + firm MCL attachment → immobile → 70% of tears; lateral meniscus = O-shaped + mobile → escapes injury. [cite: Apley 10e]
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