Tendon of popliteus muscle

The tendon of the popliteus muscle originates from the lateral femoral condyle, the fibular head, and the lateral meniscus, and inserts into the proximal tibia above the soleal line. The tendon of the popliteus muscle is a key anatomical structure in the posterolateral corner of the knee.

The tendon typically courses through the popliteal sulcus on the lateral femoral condyle. It can present in various forms, including a single tendon, a main tendon with accessory bands, or multiple tendons.[2] The popliteofibular ligament, which is often associated with the popliteus tendon, is present in the majority of cases and contributes to the stability of the posterolateral knee.[2]

The dimensions of the popliteus tendon include a length of approximately 24.85 mm, with a width at the origin of about 7.55 mm and at the musculotendinous junction of 8.5 mm. The thickness of the tendon is around 2.6 mm.[3] The tendon is not fully visible during standard knee arthroscopy, with less than half of its length typically visualized.[4]