ACL anatomy: Is there still something to learn?

• Published in: Revista española de cirugía ortopédica y traumatología 2024-07, Vol.68 (4), p.T422
• Main Authors: Morales-Avalos, R, Torres-González, E M, Padilla-Medina, J R, Monllau, J C
• Format: Article
• Language: eng ; spa
• ISSN: 1988-8856; 1988-8856
• DOI: 10.1016/j.recot.2024.03.009

The different bony and soft tissue reference points and the micro and macroscopic structures of the knee continue to be the object of focused study and analysis. Upon reviewing the most recent literature, we saw the wide spectrum of studies that seek to define the different anatomical aspects of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).BACKGROUNDThe different bony and soft tissue reference points and the micro and macroscopic structures of the knee continue to be the object of focused study and analysis. Upon reviewing the most recent literature, we saw the wide spectrum of studies that seek to define the different anatomical aspects of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).The purpose of this paper is to review the most recent publications on the ACL and its morphology in which its microscopic composition and macroscopic anatomy are addressed.PURPOSEThe purpose of this paper is to review the most recent publications on the ACL and its morphology in which its microscopic composition and macroscopic anatomy are addressed.The ACL consists of typeI (90%) and typeIII (10%) collagen matrix. Its length ranges from 27 to 38mm and its width from 10 to 12mm. The ACL cross-section area measures an average of 44mm2, and its shape resembles that of an hourglass or a bow tie. ACL bundles have been defined as anteromedial, intermediate, and posterolateral. Femoral and tibial footprints were seen to present a high degree of variability in shape and size. Furthermore, the blood supply is given by the medial genicular artery and innervation by the tibial nerve branches. Additionally, the ACL functionally prevents anterior translation of the tibia and stabilizes against the internal rotation of the tibia and valgus angulation of the knee.RESULTSThe ACL consists of typeI (90%) and typeIII (10%) collagen matrix. Its length ranges from 27 to 38mm and its width from 10 to 12mm. The ACL cross-section area measures an average of 44mm2, and its shape resembles that of an hourglass or a bow tie. ACL bundles have been defined as anteromedial, intermediate, and posterolateral. Femoral and tibial footprints were seen to present a high degree of variability in shape and size. Furthermore, the blood supply is given by the medial genicular artery and innervation by the tibial nerve branches. Additionally, the ACL functionally prevents anterior translation of the tibia and stabilizes against the internal rotation of the tibia and valgus angulation of the knee.There is great variability in the