Definition and research guide
This page combines a MeSH definition, publication statistics and selected research abstracts. It is a starting point for reading the literature, not a medical textbook or a systematic evidence review.
Content available: 3 complete abstracts (908 words), 9 references. Full article text is not stored or reproduced here; follow the PMID, DOI or PMC links to read the original sources and their access terms.
Definition
Shiny, flexible bands of fibrous tissue connecting together articular extremities of bones. They are pliant, tough, and inextensile.
Definition: NLM Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) scope note (Public domain (U.S. National Library of Medicine); attribution requested). View the MeSH record.
Also known as: Ligament; Interosseal Ligament; Interosseal Ligaments; Ligament, Interosseal; Interosseous Ligament; Interosseous Ligaments; Ligament, Interosseous.
Where it fits in the MeSH classification
- Broader topics
- Musculoskeletal System; Connective Tissue
- Narrower topics
- Broad Ligament; Ligaments, Articular; Round Ligaments
Research landscape
PubMed indexes 49,153 records tagged with the MeSH heading “Ligaments” (counts retrieved 2026-10-31). 9,334 of them (19.0%) were published from 2020 onward, and the busiest period so far is 2010-2019 with 14,916 records.
Reviews account for 5,673 records (11.5%) and meta-analyses for 460. Randomized controlled trials number 1,270 (2.6%) as a share of all records on the topic.
Show the data
| Period | Records |
|---|---|
| through 1999 | 14,728 |
| 2000-2009 | 10,175 |
| 2010-2019 | 14,916 |
| 2020 onward | 9,334 |
Publication-type chart data
| Type | Records | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Reviews | 5,673 | 11.5% |
| Meta-analyses | 460 | 0.9% |
| Randomized controlled trials | 1,270 | 2.6% |
Method: PubMed query "Ligaments"[MeSH Terms] with publication-type and date filters, retrieved 2026-10-31.
Reading the evidence in anatomy and physiology
Anatomy describes how body structures are built and physiology describes how they normally work, so most findings here are descriptive or mechanistic rather than evidence about treatment. Much of what is known comes from dissection, imaging, tissue studies and experiments in animals, and measurements in healthy volunteers can differ from those in people with disease or at different ages. Normal ranges vary between individuals and populations. Check whether a result was measured in people or in another species, the age and health of the participants, and the method used.
Evidence from open-access studies
These open-access studies come from PubMed’s best-match results for this heading (papers whose main topic it is), ranked here by citation count, with one recent addition. Each abstract is reproduced in full under its recorded open licence so that you can read the authors’ own words. They illustrate the literature; they are not a systematic summary of it. Citation counts measure attention, not reliability or clinical benefit.
| Study / authors | Year | Source label / design | Europe PMC citations | Licence / source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quadriceps, hamstring and patella tendon autografts for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction demonstrate similar clinical outcomes, including graft failure, joint laxity and complications: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials | 2026 | Meta-analysis Design not recorded in structured metadata | 13 | cc by PMID 40679231 · DOI · PMC13122740 |
| MRI Evaluation of Ligamentous Injury in Weightbearing-Stable Suprasyndesmotic Ankle Fractures: A Prospective Observational Study | 2025 | Research article Design not recorded in structured metadata | 4 | cc by PMID 40721353 · DOI · PMC12534871 |
| Long-term Prognosis of Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy Receiving Physical Therapy: Patient-Reported Outcomes at 5-Year Follow-up | 2025 | Randomized controlled trial Design not recorded in structured metadata | 4 | cc by PMID 40356204 · DOI · PMC12125489 |
Quadriceps, hamstring and patella tendon autografts for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction demonstrate similar clinical outcomes, including graft failure, joint laxity and complications: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials [1]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- PurposeGraft failure following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) remains a significant challenge, driving discussion for optimal graft choice.
- Closing excerpt
- Level of evidenceLevel I, systematic review of Level I randomised controlled studies.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (313 words)
PurposeGraft failure following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) remains a significant challenge, driving discussion for optimal graft choice. Traditionally, hamstring tendon (HT) and bone-patella tendon-bone (BPTB) autografts have been favoured for ACLR. Recently, quadriceps tendon (QT) usage has increased. This systematic review with meta-analysis aims to investigate the available evidence for QT compared to HT and BPTB autografts in terms of graft failure, clinical outcomes, functional outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).MethodsFive databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, SPORTDiscus and CINAHL) were searched to identify randomised controlled trials comparing QT versus HT or BPTB autografts. Outcomes included graft failure, donor site morbidity, complications, reoperations, clinical measures, functional outcomes, and PROMs. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB2). Meta-analysis using a random effects model was conducted to determine the pooled risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and certainty of evidence was evaluated via the GRADE approach.ResultsTwelve RCTs consisting of 636 patients were included. Meta-analysis revealed no differences in graft failure rates (RR = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.97-1.04; p = 0.83; I2 = 0%; high certainty). QT autografts demonstrated lower donor site morbidity when compared to HT and BPTB autografts (RR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.24-1.70; p 2 = 0%; high certainty). No differences were observed in joint laxity or PROM scores at 12 and 24 months, except for Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score favouring HT and BPTB at 12 months (RR = 2.49; 95% CI = -4.69 to -0.28; p = 0.03; I2 = 0%; very low certainty).ConclusionQT autografts have similar outcomes for graft failure, laxity and PROMs compared to HT and BPTB; however, QT autografts may have lower donor site morbidity. While each graft type is associated with specific complications and post-operative strength deficits, all three remain viable options for ACLR.Level of evidenceLevel I, systematic review of Level I randomised controlled studies.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 40679231 · DOI · PMC13122740
MRI Evaluation of Ligamentous Injury in Weightbearing-Stable Suprasyndesmotic Ankle Fractures: A Prospective Observational Study [2]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- BackgroundSuprasyndesmotic ankle fractures (Weber C) account for approximately 10% of ankle fractures, and surgery is advised because of the assumed unstable nature of these injuries.
- Closing excerpt
- Clinical relevance of these findings remains uncertain without outcome data.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (320 words)
BackgroundSuprasyndesmotic ankle fractures (Weber C) account for approximately 10% of ankle fractures, and surgery is advised because of the assumed unstable nature of these injuries. Treatment of transsyndesmotic ankle fractures (Weber B) has evolved as weightbearing radiographs are employed as a modality to evaluate ankle joint stability. Joint congruency on weightbearing radiographs indicate sufficient ligamentous integrity to allow for nonoperative treatment. However, no studies have evaluated the ligamentous injury patterns in suprasyndesmotic ankle fractures with a congruent ankle joint on weightbearing radiographs. This study investigates the ligamentous injuries in patients with suprasyndesmotic fractures of uncertain stability that reduce on weightbearing radiographs, aiming to provide further insight into the ligamentous injury patterns of these injuries.MethodsA prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2023 to August 2024, involving patients with suprasyndesmotic ankle fractures. Eligible patients underwent weightbearing radiographs, and if no medial clear space widening was noted, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination was conducted. MRI results were analyzed for the integrity of the deltoid and syndesmotic ligament complexes to describe ligament injury patterns rather than guide treatment decisions. Weightbearing radiographs at 2-week, 6-week, and 6-12-month follow-up were evaluated for joint congruency and fracture healing. No clinical outcomes were assessed.ResultsTwenty patients were included in the final analysis. The majority of participants exhibited a complete rupture of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament and interosseous ligament. Low frequency of complete rupture of the posterior inferior syndesmotic ligament (PITFL) and the deep posterior tibiotalar ligament (dPTTL) of the deltoid complex was evident. The majority of patients demonstrated a congruent ankle joint on the 6-12-month follow-up weightbearing radiographs, with 14 of 15 showing joint congruency. One patient treated nonoperatively demonstrated widening of the medial clear space at the 6-12-month follow-up.ConclusionIn this small observational study, suprasyndesmotic ankle fractures that demonstrated congruency on weightbearing radiographs often exhibited an intact or partially ruptured PITFL and dPTTL, when evaluated with MRI. Clinical relevance of these findings remains uncertain without outcome data.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 40721353 · DOI · PMC12534871
Long-term Prognosis of Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy Receiving Physical Therapy: Patient-Reported Outcomes at 5-Year Follow-up [3]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- BackgroundPatellar tendinopathy (PT) is a highly prevalent injury among jumping athletes.
- Closing excerpt
- Clinicians treating athletes with PT may use these findings to estimate the average prognosis.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (275 words)
BackgroundPatellar tendinopathy (PT) is a highly prevalent injury among jumping athletes. The long-term prognosis of athletes with PT following physical therapy is unknown.PurposeTo assess self-perceived recovery rate and the 5-year change in pain levels, disability, and sports participation, and to explore the prognostic factors associated with self-perceived recovery.Study designCohort study; Level of evidence, 3.MethodsAthletes with PT who were previously enrolled in a randomized trial and received education, load management advice, and exercise therapy instructions at baseline were eligible. An online questionnaire was sent 5 years after inclusion. Self-perceived recovery was assessed by a dichotomized 7-point global rating of change (recovery was defined as "significantly improved" to "completely recovered"). Pain levels during sports (0-10 points) and disability assessed by the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Patellar (VISA-P) score were recorded at baseline and 5 years. Sports participation was categorized into return to performance, return to sport, return to participation, and quitting sports. Nonparametric tests were performed to compare scores at baseline and 5 years. Logistic regression models were used to identify prognostic factors.ResultsOf 76 eligible participants, 58 (76%) responded (mean age, 30 years [SD, 4 years]; 28% female). At a mean follow-up of 5 years, 76% of participants felt recovered. Pain levels during sports (median, 7 points [IQR, 7-8 points] to 2 points [IQR, 1-4 points]) and VISA-P score (median, 57 [IQR, 45-66] to 82 [IQR, 74-97] points) significantly improved from baseline to 5 years (all P P ConclusionAthletes with PT after physical therapy can expect a generally acceptable long-term prognosis. However, almost one-quarter did not feel recovered and perceived worse patient-reported outcomes. Clinicians treating athletes with PT may use these findings to estimate the average prognosis.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 40356204 · DOI · PMC12125489
Key reviews and meta-analyses
The most cited review-type papers among PubMed’s best-match results for this heading, listed with bibliographic details only. Follow the links for the full text and access terms.
- Research article Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Outcomes for Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Hamstring-Tendon Autografts [4]
- Research article Hamstring Autograft versus Patellar Tendon Autograft for ACL Reconstruction: Is There a Difference in Graft Failure Rate? A Meta-analysis of 47,613 Patients [5]
- Research article Outcomes After Isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for the Treatment of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis [6]
- Research article Accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound for diagnosis of deep endometriosis in uterosacral ligaments, rectovaginal septum, vagina and bladder: systematic review and meta-analysis [7]
- Research article Can ultrasound imaging predict the development of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy? A systematic review and meta-analysis [8]
- Research article Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Hamstring Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis [9]
References
- White T, Castro M, Antonio L, Hing W, Tudor F, Sattler L. Quadriceps, hamstring and patella tendon autografts for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction demonstrate similar clinical outcomes, including graft failure, joint laxity and complications: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. . 2026. PMID 40679231 · DOI · PMC13122740
- Saatvedt O, Furunes H, Schubert PF, Fidje Ø, Molund M. MRI Evaluation of Ligamentous Injury in Weightbearing-Stable Suprasyndesmotic Ankle Fractures: A Prospective Observational Study. . 2025. PMID 40721353 · DOI · PMC12534871
- Deng J, Oosterhof JJ, Eygendaal D, Breda SJ, Oei EHG, de Vos RJ. Long-term Prognosis of Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy Receiving Physical Therapy: Patient-Reported Outcomes at 5-Year Follow-up. . 2025. PMID 40356204 · DOI · PMC12125489
- Mouarbes D, Menetrey J, Marot V, Courtot L, Berard E, Cavaignac E. Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Outcomes for Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Hamstring-Tendon Autografts. Am J Sports Med. 2019. PMID 30790526 · DOI
- Samuelsen BT, Webster KE, Johnson NR, Hewett TE, Krych AJ. Hamstring Autograft versus Patellar Tendon Autograft for ACL Reconstruction: Is There a Difference in Graft Failure Rate? A Meta-analysis of 47,613 Patients. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2017. PMID 28205075 · DOI · PMC5599382
- Schneider DK, Grawe B, Magnussen RA, Ceasar A, Parikh SN, Wall EJ, et al.. Outcomes After Isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for the Treatment of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Sports Med. 2016. PMID 26872895 · DOI · PMC5502077
- Guerriero S, Ajossa S, Minguez JA, Jurado M, Mais V, Melis GB, et al.. Accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound for diagnosis of deep endometriosis in uterosacral ligaments, rectovaginal septum, vagina and bladder: systematic review and meta-analysis. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol. 2015. PMID 26250349 · DOI
- McAuliffe S, McAuliffe S, McCreesh K, Culloty F, Purtill H, O'Sullivan K. Can ultrasound imaging predict the development of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2016. PMID 27633025 · DOI
- Dai W, Leng X, Wang J, Cheng J, Hu X, Ao Y. Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Hamstring Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Sports Med. 2022. PMID 34494906 · DOI
About this article
- Sources
- NLM Medical Subject Headings (definition, synonyms); NCBI PubMed (counts, identifiers); Europe PMC (open-access abstracts and citation counts).
- Verification
- Every reference was resolved against PubMed on 2026-10-31; title, year and DOI matched.
- Review state
- automated source verified; no human expert review has been recorded yet.
- Version
- 1, last updated 2026-10-31.
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Evidence strength
EvidenceHelix's computed view of the study designs behind this topic: how common meta-analyses, randomized trials and reviews are, how recent the literature is, and a plain-language reading. It describes the design mix of the literature. It is not a quality appraisal of any study, and it is not medical advice.