Espiral AtlasAnterolateral tubercle of the tibia (Gerdy's tubercle)
tuberculum anterolaterale tibiae
Study entry
Description
A prominence on the anterolateral surface of the lateral condyle, below the articular surface (Gerdy's tubercle).
Relations
Insertion of the iliotibial tract, a thickening of the fascia of the lateral surface of the thigh that stabilizes the knee.
Source: cap. 7, «Huesos del miembro inferior: tibia»
Clinical correlation
Effusion and puncture of the knee
A distal femoral fracture or a cut on the front of the thigh can reach the suprapatellar bursa and infect the knee. An infected and inflamed knee accumulates synovial fluid (effusion). Because the suprapatellar bursa communicates with the cavity of the knee, swelling of the thigh just above the patella suggests an effusion, and puncturing the bursa removes fluid for analysis. Direct puncture is done with the patient seated and the knee flexed, on the lateral side, in a triangle between the anterolateral tubercle of the tibia (Gerdy's), the lateral epicondyle of the femur and the apex of the patella. Through there serous fluid or blood is aspirated and drugs are injected.
Related clinical cases
- Effusion and puncture of the knee