The anatomical description of the pericruciate fat pad (PCFP) – a brief report of cadaveric dissection

Abstract

Introduction. Fat pads of the human knee joint are relatively well-known structures except for the pericruciate fat pad (PCFP). Aim. The study aimed to describe (1) the anatomy of the pericruciate fat pad (PCFP) and (2) its relation to the middle genicular artery (MGA). Materials and methods. Four male cadaveric lower limbs were dissected. PCFP was excised, and its horizontal and vertical lengths and volume were measured. The presence of MGA was assessed, and its internal diameter was registered. Results. PCFP was located in the intercondylar fossa. Its superior, inferior, medial&lateral and posterior borders were the intercondylar roof, tibial plateau, femoral condyles, and posterior knee capsule, respectively. The anterior part of the PCFP enveloped the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). PCFP had a homogenous appearance of adipose tissue with small lobules. It was connected to the PCL with a fibrous process. The mean horizontal&vertical length and volume were 56.85±3.4 mm (range 52.1-60.2 mm), 42.8±5.8 mm (range 34.2-46.1 mm) and 43.75±4.79 ml (range 40-50 ml), respectively. The MGA penetrated the PCFP in all four examined limbs; its mean diameter was 1.18±0.33 mm (range 0.8-1.55 mm). Conclusions. PCFP is a relatively large structure, with MGA present within all examined cases. Care must be taken when performing surgeries involving the posterior intra-articular part of the knee because the PCFP may present an underestimated potential for oedema and bleeding.