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Anterior cruciate ligament
Other Terms:
ACL (anterior cruciate ligament),
Ligamentum cruciatum anterius,
Ligament croisé antérieur
Parts
None
Group
Lower limb joints - Knee
Description
This is a strong ligamentous cord that attaches on the medial aspect of the anterior intercondylar region of the tibial plateau. At its tibial attachment, it blends with the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus. It courses upwards toward the femur in a posterolateral direction, twisting as it goes. It widens as it approaches the femur and attaches to the lateral femoral condyles posteromedial surface. This ligament is typically longer, thinner, and more oblique than the posterior cruciate ligament.
Function
Stabilizes knee joint and prevents anterior translation (sliding) of the tibia in relation to the femur. Limits lateral rotation of the tibia.
Latin
Ligamentum cruciatum anterius
French
Ligament croisé antérieur