**Core Concept**
Meniscal injuries are a common problem in orthopedic surgery, often occurring due to non-contact mechanisms such as twisting or pivoting injuries. The menisci are two semilunar cartilages in the knee joint, playing a crucial role in shock absorption and joint stability.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The most common type of meniscal injury is a longitudinal tear, which occurs when there is a longitudinal split in the meniscus. This type of tear often results from a twisting or pivoting injury, causing the meniscus to stretch and eventually tear. The meniscus is composed of a dense network of collagen fibers and elastin, which provide its strength and elasticity. When subjected to excessive stress, the meniscus can fail, leading to a longitudinal tear.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Bucket-handle tears are a type of meniscal tear, but they are less common than longitudinal tears. Bucket-handle tears occur when a longitudinal tear propagates through the meniscus, causing a flap of meniscus to detach and move into the intercondylar notch.
**Option B:** Radial tears are another type of meniscal tear, but they are less common than longitudinal tears. Radial tears occur when there is a radial split in the meniscus, often resulting from a compressive force.
**Option C:** Horizontal cleavage tears are a type of meniscal tear, but they are less common than longitudinal tears. Horizontal cleavage tears occur when there is a horizontal split in the meniscus, often resulting from a compressive force.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to note that meniscal injuries often occur in conjunction with ligamentous injuries, particularly ACL tears. A thorough examination and imaging studies are necessary to accurately diagnose and treat meniscal injuries.

**Correct Answer: C. Longitudinal tears are the most common type of meniscal injury.**