Ligament of Humphrey (Anterior Meniscofemoral)

ligamentum meniscofemorale anterius

The ligament of Humphrey is the anterior meniscofemoral ligament, passing from the lateral meniscus posterior horn anterior to the PCL to the medial femoral condyle. Present in 25-30% of knees (often together with the posterior ligament of Wrisberg), it assists PCL function and restrains the lateral meniscus. On MRI its rounded structure anterior to the PCL can be mistaken for a bucket-handle meniscal tear fragment.

Region: Knee

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Lateral meniscus posterior horn
Insertion	Medial femoral condyle — passes anterior to the PCL

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions	Assists PCL in resisting posterior tibial translation; restrains lateral meniscus posterior horn

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The ligaments of Humphrey and Wrisberg are the two meniscofemoral ligaments that stabilise the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus to the femur. Their presence is important in PCL reconstruction planning as they provide accessory PCL function. Their absence on MRI does not indicate pathology — they are simply absent in 70% of knees.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Meniscofemoral Ligament MRI Mimic

Ligament of Humphrey appearing as a rounded structure anterior to the PCL on MRI, mimicking a bucket-handle meniscal tear fragment — a normal variant.