[Anatomy and biomechanic function of capsule and ligaments of the knee joint (author's transl)].

The anatomic characteristics of the different parts of the knee joint, which are important for the function, are outlined. The passive stabilizers are discussed with special emphasis upon the dorsal ligaments of the capsule. Anatomy and functions of the active stabilizers of the joint are described. In the second part of the paper the complicated mechanism of the knee joint is discussed. It follows the laws of kinetics and can be therefore tested and reproduced.