Anatomy of the knee Flashcards
Where is the knee joint?
Articulation between distal femur and proximal tibia
Articulation between femur and patella
What type of joint is the knee?
Synovial bicondylar hinge joint
List the functions of the knee
Unusual
Weight–bearing
Mobility
- Extension/flexion
- Some rotation when flexed
List the bony structures which strengthen the knee
- Bony expansions
- Locking mechanism
- Femoral angle
List the soft tissue structures which strengthen the knee
- Ligaments
- Menisci
- Muscles
List the bony expansions of the knee
Epicondyles
Femoral condyles
Tibial condyles
Intercondylar fossa
What is the function of the bony expansions?
Provides a strong base
What is the function of the locking mechanism
Reduces amount of energy required when extended
Describe the shape of the femoral surfaces in flexion
round
Describe the shape of the femoral surfaces in extension
Flat
What constitutes the locking mechanism
Shape of the femur
Rotation
Centre of gravity
What does medial rotation of the femur on the tibia in extension do?
Tightens the ligaments of the knee
Where is the centre of gravity in the knee?
In front of the knee
What is the function of the centre of gravity in the knee?
Maintains extension
Describe the femoral angle
Adducted femur brings knee joint under pelvis
Critical for weight bearing
Occurs during development
What is normal joint alignment in the knee?
Vertical line through centre of femoral head,
Centre of knee and centre of ankle
Describe varus deformity (Genu varum)
Deformity in the angle tween the femur and tibia
Medial displacement of the tibia - common in children under 2 and rickets
Pushes the knees apart - bow legged - decrease in Q angle
Describe valgus deformity (Genu valgum)
Lateral displacement of the tibia
- Common in children aged 2-4, rickets, arthritis
Brings knees together - ‘Knock-kneed’
Increases Q angle
What is the function of the ligaments in the knee?
Provide stability
Name the two groups of ligaments in the knee
Intracapsular
Extracapsular
Where are the Extracapsular ligaments found?
Outside of the capsule
Where are the Intracapsular ligaments found?
Inside the capsule
Name the Extracapsular ligaments
- Medial collateral
- Lateral collateral