Copyright 2009
Author John Udall MD
Definition
The meniscotibial ligaments are the ligametous structures which anchor the undersurface of the menisci to the tibial plateau.
Its unique structural features include its ability to anchor the medial meniscus which makes this meniscus much less mobile then the lateral meniscus. It is a thickening of the joint capsule and has also been called the coronary ligament.
Its origin is on the tibial plateau of the knee and it inserts into the outer, inferior portion of the medial meniscus as well as the lateral meniscus.
The literature does not specify a specific nerve supply or arterial supply to the structures.
The function or action of the ligaments is to stabilize the meniscus, which in turn will help in preventing anteroposterior translation of the femur on the tibia
These ligaments can be iatrogenically cut during surgery involving the proximal tibia. Often times in doing an open reduction, internal fixation of a tibial plateau fracture, these ligaments must be cut in order to elevate the meniscus to better visualize the articular surface. It is essential to repair these back to the tibia at the end of the procedure. They can be fixed back to the tibia by suturing the ligaments into the periosteum of the tibia.
References
Gray, Henry. Anatomy of the Human Body. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger, 1918; Bartleby.com, 2000.