Intermediate articulation between patella and femur
Patella
Large sesamoid bone embedded in the quadriceps tendon
Articulation called patellofemoral jointLigaments Reinforcing Fibrous Capsule
[Plate 497, Knee: Cruciate and Collateral Ligaments]Extracapsular
Medial (tibial) collateral ligament
Flat and band-like
Attached to medial meniscus on deep surface
Lateral (fibular) collateral ligament
Strong and cord-like
Separated by lateral meniscus by tendon of popliteus muscle
Splits tendon of biceps prior to its insertion
Patellar ligament
Oblique popliteal ligament
Arcuate popliteal ligament
Intracapsular ligaments
Anterior cruciate ligament
Extends from posterior medial side of lateral femoral condyle to anterior intercondylar area of tibia
Taut when knee is fully extended
Prevents posterior displacement of femur on tibia and hyperextension of joint
Intracapsular but extrasynovial
Posterior cruciate ligament
Stronger of two cruciate ligaments
Extends from lateral surface of medial condyle of femur to posterior intercondylar region of tibia
Taut during flexion
Prevents anterior displacement of femur on tibia
Medial and lateral menisci
Crescentic plates of fibrocartilage
Wedge-shaped to deepen articulating surface of tibia