[Ligaments of the knee].

The authors study the various ligaments of the knee and, for each one, the anatomy, mechanisms of injury, clinical diagnosis, indications for imaging (plain x-rays, arthroscopy, MRI). The anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament are best visualised by MRI. The tibial collateral ligament and fibular collateral ligament are also well visualised by MRI. The value of the posteromedial and posterolateral angle points, stabilising functional structures, is emphasised together with the important diagnostic distinction between isolated ligamentous lesions and associated lesions. MRI constitutes the best imaging technique for assessment of the lesions. It completes the clinical examination and should be performed early.