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European Spine Journal
Published in: European Spine Journal 4/2017

01-04-2017 | Review Article

Cervical spine meniscoids: an update on their morphological characteristics and potential clinical significance

Authors: S. F. Farrell, P. G. Osmotherly, J. Cornwall, M. Sterling, D. A. Rivett

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 4/2017

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Abstract

Purpose

Cervical spine meniscoids are intra-articular folds of synovial membrane that have been theorised to have potential clinical significance in neck pain. Recent anatomical and clinical research has re-visited the pathoanatomical capacity of these structures. The purpose of this review is to discuss cervical spine meniscoid morphology in light of recently published work, to provide an update on the plausible relevance of these structures to clinical practice.

Methods

Narrative review critically discussing basic science and clinical research regarding cervical spine meniscoids, with focus upon implications for clinical practice.

Results

Basic science research indicates that cervical spine meniscoids can be innervated and appear to vary in morphology in the presence of articular degeneration. In a clinical population, associations have been observed between cervical spine meniscoid morphology and presence of cervical spine symptoms.

Conclusions

Recent studies regarding cervical spine meniscoid morphology provide further evidence of pathoanatomical capacity of these structures. Further research is required, however, in clinical populations to empirically investigate specific theorised mechanisms of cervical spine meniscoid involvement in neck pain.
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Metadata
Title
Cervical spine meniscoids: an update on their morphological characteristics and potential clinical significance
Authors
S. F. Farrell
P. G. Osmotherly
J. Cornwall
M. Sterling
D. A. Rivett
Publication date
01-04-2017
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
European Spine Journal / Issue 4/2017
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-016-4915-4

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