Intercondyloid fossa

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Intercondyloid Fossa

The Intercondyloid Fossa also known as the intercondylar notch or notch of the femur, is a significant anatomical structure located in the femur, the longest and strongest bone in the human body. It is a deep groove located between the medial condyle and lateral condyle of the femur, the two protrusions at the lower end of the femur that connect with the tibia to form the knee joint.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The intercondyloid fossa is a crucial part of the knee joint, one of the most complex joints in the human body. It is located posteriorly on the femur, between the two condyles. The shape and size of the intercondyloid fossa can vary among individuals, but it generally has a triangular or trapezoidal shape.

The intercondyloid fossa is bordered anteriorly by the patellar surface, the smooth area where the patella, or kneecap, slides during knee movement. Posteriorly, it is bordered by the popliteal surface, a flat, triangular area on the back of the femur.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The intercondyloid fossa is clinically significant as it houses two crucial ligaments of the knee joint: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). These ligaments cross each other in the intercondyloid fossa, hence the term "cruciate," and they play a vital role in stabilizing the knee joint.

Injuries to the ACL or PCL, such as tears or sprains, are common in sports and can result in instability of the knee joint. The shape and size of the intercondyloid fossa can also influence the risk of such injuries. For example, a narrow intercondyloid fossa has been associated with a higher risk of ACL injuries.

See Also[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD