Morphometry of anterior cruciate ligament in human cadavers

Background: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) provides stability and facilitates proper joint movement. Understanding the morphology of the ACL is essential for improving surgical techniques, developing effective rehabilitation protocols, and enhancing overall knowledge of knee biomechanics. Aim of the study was to observe the normal morphology of ACL in human cadavers, shedding light on the anatomical intricacies that influence clinical outcomes. Material and Methods: A total of 30 knees from 15 cadavers were dissected in the present study. After exposing the ACL, the morphometric parameters were measured using digital Vernier calliper. The angle between the bundles of ACL in horizontal plane and direction of bundles of ACL were measured using goniometer. The collected data was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: The mean length, width at the proximal attachment, width at the distal attachment, and thickness of the right knee ACL were 28.35–32.4 mm, 9.2–10.3mm, 10.3–9.46 mm, 4.16–3.84 mmrespectively. All the morphometric parameters of the ACL in males were higher than the females, but there was no significant statistical difference. On the left and right sides, the length and width of the tibial footprints, mean cross-sectional surface areas at the middle, tibial insertion area, and at femoral insertion area of the ACL were statistically not significant. The direction of the ACL of both the sides was upward, backward, and laterally.ACL showed synovial sheath and blood vessels. Conclusion: During surgical procedures, it is imperative to be aware of the average morphometric distinctions when individually reconstructing ACL.