Association between Intercondylar Notch Dimensions and Morphometry of Anterior Cruciate Ligament – A Cadaveric Study

Abstract

Introduction: Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are commonly encountered in day-to-day practice. The morphology of the intercondylar notch (ICN), in particular, the width, and shape of the notch are of anatomic interest predisposing to ligament injuries. The previous literature points to contradicting views on the association between ICN dimensions and cruciate ligament injuries. Aim of the study: This study aims to study the morphometry of the ACL and ICN in 32 prosected lower limbs and to see if any association exists between the two. Objectives The objectives of the study were to estimate the dimensions of ACL (maximum length and width) in 32 prosected lower limbs, estimate the dimensions of ICN (ICN width and depth) along with intercondylar (IC) width in 32 prosected lower limbs, and test the strength of association between the dimensions of ICN with the dimensions of ACL. Materials and Methods: The study was done in the Department of Anatomy of MVJ Medical College and Research Hospital, Bengaluru. Thirty-two prosected lower limbs from the department of anatomy were used for the study. Results: It was observed that IC width correlated positively with ACL length as well as ACL width. A strong positive correlation was also observed between IC width with ICN width. Femoral notch width index also correlated positively with ACL width. Conclusions: The above study provides valuable data on the morphometry of ACL and its association with all dimensions of IC fossa unlike previous studies which have correlated the dimensions of IC fossa only with the thickness of ACL.