It can occasionally be injured or torn by twisting the knee or applying direct force, as seen in contact sports.

The lateral meniscus gives off from its anterior convex margin a fasciculus which forms the transverse ligament.

Occasionally a small fasciculus passes forward to be inserted into the lateral part of the anterior cruciate ligament.

More severe tears of the lateral meniscus require surgical repair or removal, which can often be done arthroscopically.

This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 343 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)