Anterior cruciate ligament

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of a pair of cruciate ligaments (the other being the posterior cruciate ligament) in the human knee.

The two ligaments are also called "cruciform" ligaments, as they are arranged in a crossed formation.

In the quadruped stifle joint (analogous to the knee), based on its anatomical position, it is also referred to as the cranial cruciate ligament.

The term cruciate translates to cross.

This name is fitting because the ACL crosses the posterior cruciate ligament to form an “X”.

It is composed of strong, fibrous material and assists in controlling excessive motion.

This is done by limiting mobility of the joint.

The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the four main ligaments of the knee, providing 85% of the restraining force to anterior tibial displacement at 30 and 90° of knee flexion.

The ACL is the most injured ligament of the four located in the knee.