Knee Flashcards
How many joints are within the knee and what are they called?
There are 3 joints in the knee. These are the medial and lateral tibiofemoral joints and the patellofemoral joint.
What is contained within the tibiofemoral joint?
Fibrocartilaginous menisci is within the tibiofemoral joint and acts as shock absorbers to evenly distribute the load.
What 4 ligaments make up the knee?
Anterior cruciate ligament
Posterior cruciate ligament
Medial collateral ligament
Lateral collateral ligament
Primary role of ACL
Prevent abnormal internal rotation of the tibia.
What is the role of the PCL?
PCL acts to prevent hyperextension of the knee and anterior translation of the femur.
Functions of the LCL and MCL?
LCL prevents varus force and MCL prevents valgus force.
Most osteoarthritis cases are primary. True/false
True, most OA cases are without any main cause however both environmental and genetic factors seem to lead to it.
When should knee replacement be considered for OA?
When patient has significant disability and discomfort, where conservative measures would not be effective. Procedure can be a total knee replacement (of all 3 compartments) or partial knee replacement (1 compartment).
How do meniscal injuries usually occur?
Usually suffered following a twisting force on a loaded knee. Most have pain in the medial joint line (some will be lateral) and there will be an accompanying effusion the next day.
What does a meniscal tear feel like?
Patient will often complain of pain and a catching sensation (“locking”). If a loose meniscal fragment is caught in the knee when walking, patients may describe the feeling that the knee is “about to give way”.
What is the common cause of an ACL rupture?
Usually the result of a high rotational force that turns the upper body laterally on a planted foot. It often occurs in high impact sports. Classically a “pop” is felt or heard and may be accompanying haemarthrosis (effusion due to bleeding in the joint).
What is the cause of PCL injury?
A direct blow suffered to the anterior tibia when the knee is flexed or hyperextension.
How do meniscal tears occur in young people?
Classically occur during sport and can also occur when suddenly standing from a squatting position.
What is a “bucket handle” tear?
One that involves a large meniscal fragment being flipped out of it’s normal position and being displaced anteriorly in the intercondylar notch. Causes the knee to lock and is not able to fully extend since the fragment acts as a mechanical obstruction.
Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is more likely to be injured than the medial collateral ligament (MCL). True/false
False, MCL is more likely to be injured. Can occur when you have a direct blow to the outside of the knee, stretching the medial side of the knee. Potential causes include skiing.
