Condyle

A condyle is a rounded projection at the end of a bone that forms part of a joint with another bone. Condyles are typically smooth, with articular cartilage on their joint-facing surfaces to facilitate movement within a synovial joint. The name derives from Latin condylus, meaning "knob" or "knuckle."

Several bones have condyles, and the term is often used for the major joints of the body. The mandibular condyle (condylus mandibulae) forms the temporomandibular joint with the temporal bone. The distal femur has medial and lateral condyles that articulate with the tibial plateau. The occipital condyles rest on the first cervical vertebra (atlas) to enable head motion. The proximal end of the tibia bears medial and lateral condyles that participate in the knee joint, and the distal humerus bears condylar surfaces as part of the elbow complex.

A condyle is different from an epicondyle, which is a projection above a condyle that serves as an attachment site for ligaments or tendons.

Clinically, fractures or dislocations involving condyles can affect joint function. Mandibular condyle fractures are common in facial trauma; condylar fractures of the knee or tibial condyles may occur with high-energy injuries. Age-related degeneration of condylar cartilage can contribute to osteoarthritis in affected joints.