Knee Anatomy

Ernest F. Talarico, Jr., Ph.D.

Associate Director of Medical Education

Associate Professor and Course Director, Human Gross Anatomy & Embryology

Coordinator, Anatomical Education Program

Indiana University School of Medicine-Northwest

AY14-15

Knee Joint

• The most complex joint in the body. Femur round, tibia flat.

• Comprised of 3 bones.– Femur– Tibia– patella

Femur

• Medial and Lateral Condyles- distal ends of the femur.

Patella

• Patella tendon- attaches to the anterior of the tibia.

• Quadriceps tendon-attaches the quadriceps to the patella.

Cruciate Ligaments• Major

stabilizing ligaments in the knee

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)-prevents the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur

• Injuries caused by hyperflexion

Cruciate Ligaments

• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)-It prevents the tibia from sliding backwards under the femur.

• Injuries usually

caused by Hyperextension

Collateral Ligament

• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)- connect the tibia and the femur.

• A force from the lateral side could cause a tear.

Collateral Ligament

• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)- connect the fibula to the femur.

• A force from the medial side can cause a tear of the LCL

Cartilage

• Articulate Cartilage-covers the moving parts of the knee.

• Chronic damage to articulate cartilage leads to arthritis.

Cartilage

• Meniscus- half moon shaped cartilage lying between the knee joint.

Meniscus Tear

• Surgery

• Chronic Arthritis

Knee Injuries

• ACL Replacement surgery.