Ligaments of Knee and Leg

Question 1

Fibrous capsule of knee

Answer 1

attachments: from the margins of the femoral condyle to the margins of the tibial condyles

Question 2

Tibial (medial) collateral

Answer 2

attachments: from the medial epicondyle of the femur to the medial condyle and shaft of the tibia
function: stabilizes the medial aspect of the joint (resists genu valgus stress, prevents abduction of the tibia)
* closely related to medial meniscus and joint capsule

Question 3

Fibular (lateral) collateral

Answer 3

attachments: from the lateral epicondyle of the femur to the head of the fibula
function: stabilizes lateral aspect of joint (resists genu varus, prevents adduction of tibia)

Question 4

Anterior cruciate

Answer 4

attachments: from the medial part of the anterior intercondylar area of the tibia to the posterior part of the medial surface of the lateral condyle of the femur
function: prevents posterior displacement of the femur on the tibia and hyperextension of the knee

Question 5

Posterior cruciate

Answer 5

attachments: from the posterior intercondylar area of the tibia to the lateral surface of the medial condyle of the femur
function: prevents anterior displacement of the femur on the tibia

Question 6

Medial meniscus

Answer 6

attachments: anterior and posterior regions of the intercondylar area of the tibia and fibrous capsule at the tibial collateral ligament
function: shock absorption, reduce friction, increase contact area

“C” shaped, larger

Question 7

Lateral meniscus

Answer 7

attachments: anterior and posterior intercondylar area of the tibia
function: shock absorption, reduce friction, increase contact area

“O” shaped, smaller

Question 8

Patellar ligament

Answer 8

attachments: from the apex of the patella to the tibial tuberosity
function: resists knee flexion