The lateral condyle is one of the two projections on the lower extremity of the femur. The other one is the medial condyle. The lateral condyle is the more prominent and is broader both in its front-to-back and transverse diameters.

Clinical significance

The most common injury to the lateral femoral condyle is an osteochondral fracture combined with a patellar dislocation. The osteochondral fracture occurs on the weight-bearing portion of the lateral condyle. Typically, the condyle will fracture (and the patella may dislocate) as a result of severe impaction from activities such as downhill skiing and parachuting. Open reduction and internal fixation surgery is typically used to repair an osteochondral fracture. For a AO Type B1 partial articular fracture of the lateral condyle, interfragmentary lag screws are used to secure the bone back together. Supplementation of buttress screws or a buttress plate is used if the fracture extends to the proximal metaphysis or distal diaphysis.http://www.proceduresconsult.com/medical-procedures/open-reduction-and-internal-fixation-OR-040-procedure.aspx

Additional images

File:Knee diagram.png, Knee diagram File:Gray347.png, Right knee-joint, from the front, showing interior ligaments. File:Gray439.png, Muscles of the back of the leg. Deep layer. File:Slide2bib.JPG, Right knee in extension. Deep dissection. Posterior view.

References

External links

* {{Authority control Bones of the lower limb Femur