Structural Properties of the Anterolateral Complex and Their Clinical Implications

Clin Sports Med. 2018 Jan;37(1):41-47. doi: 10.1016/j.csm.2017.07.005. Epub 2017 Oct 10.

Abstract

The role of the anterolateral complex of the knee in providing static and rotatory knee stability has been a source of renewed interest in the literature. Several studies have established a role of the anterolateral complex in controlling knee rotational stability. Although the objective quantification of knee kinematics and stability has been investigated, understanding of the structural properties of the anterolateral complex is evolving. This article highlights recent evidence pertaining to the structural properties of the anterolateral structures. The biomechanical evaluation of the structural properties of the anterolateral complex of the knee yielded minimal involvement in controlling knee rotational stability.

Keywords: Anterolateral capsule; Anterolateral ligament; Anterolateral structures of the knee.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / physiopathology
  • Knee Joint / anatomy & histology*
  • Knee Joint / physiology*
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Ligaments, Articular / anatomy & histology*
  • Ligaments, Articular / physiology*
  • Ligaments, Articular / surgery
  • Rotation
  • Tibia / physiology