Can the anterolateral ligament be clearly identified in an embalmed cadaver?

Introduction: In this study, it was aimed to determine the anterolateral ligament (ALL), especially in formalin-fixed cadaver knees using several dissection techniques. The ALL was described by Segond in 1879 as a “pearly, resistant, fibrous band” in the anterolateral aspect of the human knee. Hughston et al. described this anatomical structure as the mid-third lateral capsular ligament. Claes first described this structure as ALL. Material and Methods: The ALL was initially evaluated in six formalin-fixed cadaver knees and one fresh knee. Three different techniques were used in the formalin-fixed cadaver knees. Results: In one of the six formalin-fixed cadavers and in the fresh cadaver, the ALL was able to be explored. In the formalin-fixed cadaver knee, ALL was measured 5.5 mm distal, 3.4 mm mid, and 4.3 mm proximal. In the fresh cadaver knee, the ALL was measured 7.5 mm distal, 3.9 mm mid, and 5.4 mm proximal. Discussion and Conclusion: As a result of this study in which it was aimed to determine ALL, especially in formalin-fixed cadaver knees, it was only possible to clearly determine the ALL in one of the six formalin-fixed cadaver knees and in the fresh cadaver. In conclusion it is difficult to determine ALL in embalmed cadavers.