Knee Anatomy

Knee Joint One of the most poorly constructed joints in the body. Femur has rounded distal epiphysis while proximal epiphysis of Tibia is flat. Creates a very unstable design. Comprised of four separate bones. Femur Tibia Fibula – *** Patella

Femur and Tibia Articular cartilage covers the ends of both the femur and the tibia. Medial and Lateral Condyles- found at the distal end of the Femur. Medial and lateral Condyles found at the proximal end of the Tibia.

Patella Patella tendon- attaches onto the anterior of the Tibia. Provides protection of Knee Joint, Patella also lifts tendons to increase leverage. Quadriceps tendon-attaches the Quadriceps to the patella. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnYO4TnpTCo

Cruciate Ligaments Major stabilizing ligaments in the knee. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)-prevents the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) prevents knee from hyperextending Injuries are most often caused by hyperflexion and hyperextension of the knee or rotation at the knee.

Cruciate Ligaments Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)-It prevents the tibia from sliding backwards under the femur. Injuries usually caused by Hyperextension These cruciate ligaments get their name for their cross over (crucifix) arrangement.

Collateral Ligament Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)- connect the tibia and the femur on the medial side of the knee joint. A force from the lateral side could cause a tear to MCL. Very common injury in many contact sports.

Collateral Ligament Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)- connect the fibula to the femur on the lateral side of knee. A force from the medial side (rare) can cause a tear of the LCL.

Cartilage Articulate Cartilage-covers the moving parts of the knee. Very smooth and slippery. Chronic damage to articulate cartilage leads to osteoarthritis.

Cartilage Meniscus- half moon shaped cartilage (Fibrocartilage) lying between the knee joint. These Menisces (Lateral/Medial) act as shock absorbers to handle pounding in the joint. Often prone to tearing, which may require surgery to remove fragment.

Meniscus Tear

Knee Injuries ACL Replacement surgery. Often requires harvesting 1/3rd of Patellar tendon or from cadaver. Animation Animation 2

SURGERY For some common knee joint issues Arthroscopic Surgery for Torn Meniscus http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pguNCtOwzEc Checkout Animation on Arthroscopic Surgery SURGERY For some common knee joint issues