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Knee ligaments
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL, commonly referred to just as the cruciate ligament) is made of elastic fibers.It connects from a posterio-lateral part of the femur to an anterio-medial part of the tibia. These attachments allow it to resist anterior translation of the tibia, in relation to the femur. It has an important role in stabilizing the knee.
The anterior cruciate ligament is commonly damaged by athletes. The ACL is often torn during sudden dislocation, torsion, or hyperextension of the knee. The ACL is the most commonly injured knee ligament but other ligaments can be injured (lateral, posterior cruciate).
The tear of the ACL can provoke an effusion with a swelling of the knee, and an instability of the knee that gives way while walking or practicing sport. The patient cannot rely on his knees like he used to.
Menisci lesions can occur along with a tear of the ACL.
The anterior instability resulting from the tear of the ACL can provoke lesion of the menisci and cartilages with a greater risk of knee osteoarthrosis. In the everyday life the tear of the ACL would not be much of a problem but with a regular practice of activities and sport, the risks of functional instability would become greater. (particularly with team sports and martial arts).
The posterior cruciate ligament or PCL can be torn after a knee sprain or after a violent shock on the front side of the tibia. Consequently, the knee can become unstable but less frequently than in a case of a torn ACL. However the risk of osteoarthritis on the medium term is greater.
