Bulletin of the NYU hospital for joint diseases
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The posterolateral region of the knee is an anatomically complex area that plays an important role in the stabilization of the knee relative to specific force vectors at low angles of knee flexion. A renewed interest in this region and advanced biomechanical studies have brought additional understanding of both the anatomy and the function of posterolateral structures in knee stabilization and kinematics. ⋯ The failure of the reconstruction of cruciate ligaments may be due to unrecognized or untreated posterolateral corner injuries. Various methods of repair and reconstruction have been described and new research is yielding superior results from reconstruction of this region.
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Articular cartilage defects are common and play a significant role in degenerative joint disease. Cartilage is unable to regenerate, secondary to an inherent lack of vascular supply, thus, various techniques have been described in an attempt to treat and potentially restore these defects. ⋯ Only then can the surgeon choose to perform a repair or a restoration of the articular surface. Current literature and techniques for the treatment of articular cartilage defects are reviewed, with an algorithm developed for the management of articular cartilage defects by orthopaedic surgeons.