Structure
The transverse tibiofibular ligament is described as a continuation of the distal, deep part of the posterior tibiofibular ligament (Standring, 2016). It is a thick yellow fibrous cone-shaped band, attributed to the yellow elastic fibers that it contains (Standring, 2016). This ligament is covered by hyaline cartilage and projects distally to make contact with the talus.
Related parts of the anatomy
Anatomical Relations
The transverse tibiofibular ligament is located on the posterior aspect of the inferior tibiofibular joint, extending from the proximal end of the lateral malleolar fossa to the posterior border of the articular surface of the tibia, almost reaching the medial malleolus. The fibular and posterior tibial arteries pass over it.
Function
The transverse tibiofibular ligament strengthens the tibiofibular joint. It also works with the anterior tibiofibular ligament to hold the fibula close to the fibular groove of the tibia. As the transverse tibiofibular ligament is located below the posterior tibial margin, it prevents posterior translation of the talus. The transverse tibiofibular ligament also creates a posterior labrum that deepens the articular surface of the distal tibia (Norkus and Floyd, 2001).
List of Clinical Correlates
—Transverse tibiofibular ligament injury
References
Norkus, S. A. and Floyd, R. T. (2001) 'The anatomy and mechanisms of syndesmotic ankle sprains', Journal of athletic training, 36(1), pp. 68-73.
Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Gray's Anatomy Series 41st edn.: Elsevier Limited.
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Joint Ligament
Entheseal structures are widely located throughout the body and are represented by the interface between bone and several tissues including tendon, joint capsules and ligaments.
