Page 13 - Demo

1Introduction11IntroductionThe Anterior Cruciate Ligament: Anatomy, Function and InjuryThe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has a central role in a well-functioning knee. The ACL originates on the medial wall of the lateral femoral condyle in the intercondylar notch of the femur and runs inferiorly and anteriorly towards its insertion on the tibia, just anteromedially of the tibial spine (see Figure 1). The course of the ACL contributes to its function as the main stabiliser for movements of the tibia in relation to the femur. Besides its primary function in controlling anterior-posterior (AP) laxity, it is recognised that the ACL has an important role in limiting the rotation of the tibia relative to the femur.10 In collaboration with the posterior cruciate ligament, the ACL is responsible for an adequate roll-back mechanism in the knee joint. This mechanism creates a roll-glide movement of the femur to ensure that the femur does not roll off the tibia during flexion of the knee. Figure 1. Anatomical drawing of the kneeMark Zee.indd 11 03-01-2024 08:55