genikulära

Genikulära is a Swedish term used as an adjective to describe structures related to the knee. In medical context it is used to classify arteries, nerves, veins, ligaments and other components that surround or involve the knee joint. The word is derived from Latin and is used in parallel with the English term genicular.

In anatomy, genikulära structures form part of the periarticular network that supports and vascularizes the knee. The most commonly described genikulära arteries comprise a set of branches that create an anastomotic ring around the joint. This typically includes the superior medial genicular artery, the superior lateral genicular artery, the inferior medial genicular artery, the inferior lateral genicular artery, and the descending genicular artery. These arteries originate from the femoral and popliteal arteries and contribute to collateral circulation during knee movement and in response to injury.

Genikulära nerves are branches that innervate the knee joint capsule and adjacent soft tissues. They originate from several nerves in the thigh and leg, including branches of the femoral, tibial, and common fibular nerves, providing sensory and proprioceptive input to periarticular structures. Genikulära veins accompany the arteries and drain into the surrounding venous plexuses around the knee.

Clinical relevance: knowledge of genikulära anatomy is important in knee surgery, arthroscopy and pain management, where identification and sometimes modulation of these vessels and nerves can influence bleeding control and postoperative outcomes. Radiological interpretation of knee imaging also benefits from awareness of genikulära pathways.

See also: knee joint, genicular arteries, knee arthroscopy, vascular anatomy of the knee.