Lateral Collateral Ligament, Lateral View

Description

Oriented in a lateral view of the elbow, the fibular (lateral) collateral ligament complex is seen spanning from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to blend with the annular ligament encircling the radial head, with fibers continuing toward the supinator crest of the ulna. The radial head lies anterior and slightly inferior to the capitulum, while the proximal ulna sits posteromedial, forming the ulnohumeral hinge. Lateral to the joint capsule, the common extensor tendon arises from the lateral epicondyle and overlies the ligamentous complex, with the radial collateral ligament deep to these tendinous fibers. This lateral perspective matters when you need to separate lateral elbow tendinopathy from true ligamentous instability. Varus stress and posterolateral rotatory instability relate to insufficiency of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament, often after traumatic elbow dislocation or iatrogenic injury during lateral approaches. A small structure, big consequences. The relationship to the annular ligament and radial head also explains why lateral ligament disruption can coexist with radial head fracture patterns in the classic “terrible triad” injury. Use this artwork in gross anatomy and musculoskeletal courses to teach the lateral stabilizers of the elbow and their continuity with the annular ligament, or in orthopaedic and sports medicine materials covering varus stress testing, posterolateral rotatory instability, and lateral ligament repair or reconstruction. It also fits well in surgical technique chapters describing the Kocher interval (anconeus and extensor carpi ulnaris) and the need to protect the lateral collateral ligament complex during exposure. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.