Coronary ligaments of the knee

The connective tissue structures that stabilize the knee joint and anchor the menisci to the femur.

Coronary ligaments are fibrous tissues that encircle the knee joint, providing stability by connecting the outer edges of the menisci to the femoral condyles. These ligaments play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment of the knee during movement and preventing excessive motion that could lead to injury. They are an essential component of the joint's complex anatomy.

Terminologia Anatomica

ligamenta coronaria

System

Musculoskeletal system

Function

The main function of the coronary ligaments is to stabilize the menisci, which are C-shaped cartilaginous structures that cushion and distribute weight across the knee joint. By anchoring the menisci to the femur, the coronary ligaments help to maintain the joint's integrity during the dynamic movements of walking, running, and jumping. They also assist in absorbing shock and reducing friction between the femur and tibia during activities that involve bending and straightening of the leg. Without proper functioning of the coronary ligaments, the knee may become unstable, leading to issues such as joint pain, swelling, and increased risk of injury to other structures within the knee.

Location

The coronary ligaments are located in the knee joint, specifically at the periphery of the menisci. Each meniscus is attached to the femoral condyles via these ligaments, with the medial coronary ligament connecting the inner meniscus to the medial femoral condyle and the lateral coronary ligament connecting the outer meniscus to the lateral femoral condyle. The positioning of these ligaments is critical as they are situated where the femur, tibia, and fibula meet, functioning as a bridge between the upper and lower leg bones. They are also surrounded by synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and reduces friction, enhancing mobility.

Did You Know?

The term 'coronary' refers to the crown-like formation of the ligaments around the menisci.
Healthy coronary ligaments contribute significantly to the overall stability of the knee, a joint that withstands considerable forces during physical activity.
Injuries to the coronary ligaments can lead to meniscus tears, which are common in sports-related activities.