3 i2 INFERIOR EXTREMITY 



insertion of the quadriceps extensor muscle. Its anterior 

 surfaces and margins should be carefully defined. 



The ligamentum patella is a strong band, about two inches 

 long, which is attached proximally to the apex and distal 

 border of the patella, and distally to the proximal part of the 

 tuberosity of the tibia. Its superficial fibres are directly 

 continuous over the surface of the patella with the central 

 part of the common tendon of the quadriceps extensor. Its 

 deep surface is separated proximally from the synovial mem- 

 brane by the infrapatellar pad of fat, and distally it is separated 

 from the anterior surface of the proximal end of the tibia by 



the deep infrapatellar bursa. 



Dissection. The fibular collateral 

 ligament may be exposed by removing 

 the fascia lata which covers it, and 

 by carefully cleaning the tendon of 

 insertion of the biceps femoris. By 

 this proceeding the inferior lateral 

 genicular artery will be displayed as 



joint. 



Ligamentum Collaterale 

 Fibulare (O.T. External Lateral 

 Ligament). This is rounded 

 and cord-like. It stands well 



is attached proximally to a 

 tubercle on the lateral tuberosity of the femur. Distally, it is 

 fixed to a depression on the head of the fibula anterior to 

 the apex. It is closely associated with the tendon of the 

 biceps femoris and the tendon of the popliteus. It splits 

 the tendon of the biceps into two pieces, and extends 

 distally between them to its fibular attachment. The tendon 

 of the popliteus takes origin from the lateral condyle of the 

 femur distally and anteriorly to the femoral attachment of 

 the fibular collateral ligament. As the tendon proceeds 

 backwards it is placed under cover of the ligament. 



An additional slip is sometimes described as the posterior part of the 

 fibular collateral ligament. When present it ends above in the capsule, 

 under cover of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius. Below, it is im- 

 planted into the apex of the head of the fibula. 



Ligamentum Collaterale Tibiale (O.T. Internal Lateral Liga- 

 ment). The tibial collateral ligament is a long, flat band, 



