Glossary of Terms

Magnetic resonance imaging

• Also known as MRI; diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

Medial collateral ligament

• Also known as MCL; ligament of the knee that is found on the inside of the joint; provides stability and limits sideways motion of the knee.

Membrane

• A thin soft pliable sheet or layer.

Meniscal tear

• Injury to the menisci of the knee; usually occurs when rotating the upper leg while the foot remains still.

Menisci

• Two horseshoe-shaped cartilage structures that sit between the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) in the knee joint; acts to provide smooth movement in the knee; helps to distribute weight evenly in the knee and absorbs shock.

Minimally invasive surgery:

• A new technique used to perform surgery on the joints; involves a smaller incision and therefore less cutting of normal tissues and muscles resulting in a smaller scar, less post-operative pain and a faster return to normal activities.

Musculoskeletal system

• Complex system of the body that includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.