Popliteusfibular

Popliteusfibular is a term used in some anatomical discussions to describe the connective tissue element linking the popliteus apparatus to the fibula. In contemporary knee anatomy, the structure most often referred to is the popliteofibular ligament, which forms part of the posterolateral corner of the knee and shows considerable anatomic variation between individuals.

Anatomy: The popliteus muscle–tendon complex runs posterolaterally, and the popliteofibular ligament originates from the popliteus tendon near its fibular insertion and extends to the fibular head or neck. The ligament may blend with adjacent lateral structures such as the arcuate complex or the lateral collateral ligament, and its precise fibers can differ by person. The relationship to the fibula places this structure in the posterolateral region of the knee.

Function: The component contributes to stability of the posterolateral corner, helping restrain external rotation of the tibia and posterior translation, particularly when the knee is flexed. Tension in the structure increases with varus stress and knee flexion.

Clinical significance: Injury to this region is seen in posterolateral corner injuries of the knee and can be part of complex knee trauma. MRI and clinical examination are used for assessment. In many sources, the structure is named as the popliteofibular ligament rather than popliteusfibular, and terminological variation can arise.

See also: popliteus muscle, popliteofibular ligament, posterolateral corner, fibula.