Atlas of Human Anatomy by Netter

[Plate 498, Knee: Anteroposterior Radiograph]

Knee Joint

Biaxial, hinge-type synovial joint

Movements

Flexion and extension

Some gliding and rolling

Some medial and lateral rotation about vertical axis

Articular capsule-thin and weak, offers little support in itself

Fibrous capsule

Strong

Attaches to femur superior to condyles

Attaches to articular margin of tibia

Deficient superiorly on lateral tibial condyle, to allow passage of popliteus tendon

Deficient inferiorly where tendon of popliteus crosses

Blood supply

Genicular branches of the femoral and popliteal arteries

Lateral and medial superior genicular

Middle genicular

Lateral and medial inferior genicular

Anterior tibial recurrent → anterior and posterior recurrent arteries

Circumflex fibular artery → anterior and posterior recurrent arteries

Arteries form genicular anastomosis around the knee

Nerve supply (see Section 7-2: Lower Limb: Hip and Thigh)

Obturator

Articular branches of femoral, tibial, and common fibular nerves

Bones Articulating in the Knee Joint
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Lateral and medial articulations between femoral condyles and tibial condyles

Smooth superior surface of tibia for articulation called tibial plateau