Fibular collateral ligament

Fibular Collateral Ligament

File:Fibular Collateral Ligament.png

Anatomical illustration of the Fibular Collateral Ligament

The Fibular Collateral Ligament (FCL), also known as the Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL), is a ligament located on the outer side of the human knee. It is one of the four main ligaments in the knee that connects the femur to the fibula. The primary function of the FCL is to resist varus force, which is a force applied to the leg that tries to bend the leg inward.

Anatomy

The FCL is a cord-like ligament that is approximately 7.5 cm long. It originates from the lateral epicondyle of the femur, just above the popliteus muscle, and inserts into the head of the fibula. The ligament is extracapsular, meaning it is located outside the joint capsule of the knee.

Function

The FCL plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint. It prevents the knee from bending too far inwards (varus deformity) and helps to maintain the normal alignment of the knee. The FCL also assists in limiting the rotation of the knee.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the FCL is relatively uncommon compared to other knee ligaments. However, when it does occur, it is usually in conjunction with injuries to other structures in the knee, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Treatment for FCL injuries depends on the severity of the injury and may include rest, physical therapy, or surgery.

See Also

• Knee
• Ligament
• Femur
• Fibula
• Anterior cruciate ligament
• Posterior cruciate ligament