A Novel Ligamentous Complex in the Anteromedial Region of the Knee: A Cadaveric Study.

Background: The medial knee structures have a primary role in stabilizing valgus and rotational stress, which makes them important in assessing the ligament-injured knee globally and choosing the most adequate treatment.

Purpose: To conduct a layer-by-layer dissection of the knee's anteromedial side and provide a qualitative and quantitative description of the anatomy and histology of a ligament in the anteromedial region of the knee, which we have termed the (AOL). Also, to describe the AOL relationship with what we have termed the -a ligament complex that stabilizes the medial pivot.

Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods: A total of 35 fresh-frozen knees from transfemoral amputations that were exclusively performed for vascular reasons were dissected. Structures were identified after meticulous dissection, respecting the same protocol, measured with a digital caliper rule, and histologically studied for data.

Results: The AOL was found in all dissected knees, with a mean length of 31.47 ± 5.06 mm. This structure presented a ligament histology with densely organized collagen fibrils. The medial cross was represented by the superficial medial collateral ligament, AOL (anterior region), and posterior oblique ligament.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the presence of a ligament in the anteromedial region of the knee, termed the AOL. This structure was in the anterior part of a ligament complex-the medial cross.

Clinical Relevance: Studying and revisiting the medial compartment can provide important information for understanding joint instability and promoting better results in ligament reconstructions.