Dr. Robert F. LaPrade was Recently Featured on Dr. Christoph Agten’s YouTube Presentation
PD Dr. Christoph Agten, an MSK radiologist and mentor recently published a YouTube segment titled: “The Most Misunderstood Ligament in Radiology”
During this episode, he debunks the arcuate ligament in the knee as a misnamed structure and shows the importance of the popliteofibular ligament (PFL).
Dr. LaPrade gives expert clarification:
The arcuate ligament is an old term in radiology and orthopedics that is confused with the Popliteofibular Ligament (PFL).
In 1948 the arcuate ligament was given a new name. Arcuate means arched, which describes the ligament and its acquired name.
Dr. LaPrade clarifies that the arcuate ligament is actually the PFL and is not a separate structure. The PFL is vitally important to knee stability as it acts as a main stabilizer in the knee. He further describes the main structures in the knee that Orthopedic Surgeons worry about:
- Fibular Collateral Ligament
- Popliteus Tendon
- Popliteofibular Ligament
- Biceps Femoris Tendon
- Lateral Capsule
It is important to look at the main stabilizers for continuity. Dr. LaPrade always checks for bone bruising which often correlates with posterolateral corner injuries.
The arcuate ligament is a generic old(er) term and not specifically its own ligament.
You can watch the YouTube presentation featuring Dr. Robert LaPrade below.
