Anterolateral Ligament Injury

The anterolateral structures of the knee were recently re-discovered as important secondary knee stabilizers. Since 2012, a lot of focus has been placed on the anterolateral ligament. At first, the discussion was if it existed and its anatomical parameters, followed by biomechanical studies regarding its functional aspects. After consensus regarding its existence and possible role as an adjuvant to the ACL, surgical techniques were described and reconstructions started. After 10 years, clinical studies reporting good outcomes of the combined anterior cruciate ligament and anterolateral ligament reconstruction were published, supporting this surgical approach for patients with increased risk for ACL reconstruction failure. This chapter will cover the anterolateral ligament from anatomy to clinical results, focusing on all important aspects of this structure.