An anatomic-arthrographic study of the relationships of the lateral meniscus and the popliteus tendon.

The anatomy of the posterior lateral knee joint is studied through photography and radiography of plastic corrosion casts of the knee joint. The images thus obtained are compared to in vivo arthrograms. This anatomic-arthrographic correlation clearly demonstrates how the bursal extensions of the joint space about the popliteus tendon dictate the location and arthrographic appearance of the peripheral attachments of the posterior lateral meniscus. The casts also serve to illustrate a discussion of anatomic variation, embryology, and function of the popliteus apparatus. The largely unappreciated direct action of the popliteus muscle on the lateral meniscus is emphasized.