Knee Pathologies
The knee joint is one of the most complex and important joints in the human body. It primarily allows for the flexion and extension of the leg, playing a crucial role in mobility and stability.
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Knee Pathologies Treated by Dr. Villa
Knee prosthetics, joint-preserving surgery, prosthesis revision
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, Anterolateral ligament (ALL) rupture
Knee cartilage lesions, orthobiologic treatments, and
joint-preserving surgery
Meniscal lesions
Patellar instability
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Common Pathologies
Osteoarthritis
Degradation of articular cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness.
Tendonitis
Inflammation of the tendons, often caused by overuse
Ligament Injuries
Sprains or ruptures of the ligaments, such as ACL or PCL tears.
Meniscal Injuries
Tears of the menisci, which can result from twisting movements or excessive stress.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tendons and bones.
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Anatomy of the Knee Joint
Constituent Bones
Femur
The thigh bone, which forms the upper part of the joint.
Tibia
The main bone of the lower leg, which forms the lower part of the joint.
Patella (Kneecap)
A small bone located at the front of the knee joint, embedded within the quadriceps tendon, which protects the joint and improves the efficiency of the quadriceps muscle.
Cartilage
Hyaline Cartilage
A smooth and resilient tissue that covers the ends of the femur and tibia as well as the posterior surface of the patella. It allows the bones to glide easily against each other and absorbs shocks.
Ligaments
Medial meniscus and lateral meniscus
Two crescent-shaped structures located between the femur and the tibia. They act as shock absorbers, distributing loads and stabilizing the joint.
Menisci
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
A smooth and resilient tissue that covers the ends of the femur and tibia as well as the posterior surface of the patella. It allows the bones to glide easily against each other and absorbs shocks.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)
Also located in the center, it prevents the tibia from sliding too far backward relative to the femur.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
Located on the inside of the knee, it prevents the knee from bending inward.
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
Located on the outside of the knee, it prevents the knee from bending outward.
Anterolateral Ligament (ALL)
Located on the lateral side of the knee, it extends from the lateral part of the femur to the anterolateral part of the tibia. It plays an important role in stabilizing the internal rotation of the tibia and preventing rotational instability.
Tendons
Quadriceps tendon
Connects the quadriceps muscle to the patella.
Patellar tendon
Connects the patella to the tibia.
Muscles
The main muscles involved in the movement and stability of the knee include the quadriceps at the front of the thigh, the hamstrings at the back, and the calf muscles.
Capsule
Joint Capsule
A fibrous envelope that surrounds the joint, providing additional protection and stability.
Synovial membrane
Lines the joint capsule and produces synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and reduces friction.
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Functions of the Knee Joint
Movement
The knee joint primarily allows for two types of movement
Extension
Straightening the leg forward
Flexion
Bending the leg backward
Stability
The surrounding ligaments and muscles ensure the stability of the joint, allowing it to support body weight and perform complex movements such as walking, running, jumping, and changing direction.
Extension
Straightening the leg forward
Shock Absorption
Articular cartilage and the menisci play a crucial role in absorbing shocks and distributing loads during daily and sporting activities.
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