Abnormal meniscus morphology Torn meniscus 2019-01-15T11:31:04Z A tear in the cartilaginous pad (meniscus) of the knee. Not all meniscal injuries require surgery. Some of them have the ability to heal. The meniscal tear pattern and the presence of adequate vascularity are both key points. Tears within 3 mm of the meniscosynovial junction usually have an adequate blood supply that allows healing. Tears of 5 mm or more from this junction are considered avascular and need surgical intervention.