Lateral condyle

Lateral Condyle is a term used in anatomy to refer to the outer portion of the end of a bone, particularly in the knee and elbow joints. The term "condyle" is derived from the Greek word "knuckle." In the context of the knee, the lateral condyle is part of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). In the elbow, it is part of the humerus (upper arm bone).

Anatomy

Knee

In the knee, the lateral condyle is one of the two rounded protrusions at the end of the femur that articulate with the tibia. It is larger and more prominent than the medial condyle, due to the fact that the weight of the body is borne mostly by the medial condyle when standing. The lateral condyle is also the site of attachment for the lateral collateral ligament.

Elbow

In the elbow, the lateral condyle is one of the two rounded protrusions at the end of the humerus that articulate with the radius and ulna. It is smaller than the medial condyle and is the site of attachment for the radial collateral ligament.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the lateral condyle are common in sports and accidents. Fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus, known as lateral condyle fractures, are the most common elbow fractures in children. Treatment typically involves surgery to repair the fracture and restore the normal anatomy of the elbow.

See Also

• Medial condyle
• Condyle
• Lateral collateral ligament
• Lateral condyle fracture