Knee

Orthopedic knee surgery in Wisconsin

Dr. Mick Kelly is a leading orthopedic knee surgeon in Wisconsin. Dr. Kelly specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of various knee conditions and injuries. Knee injuries, which can be significantly debilitating, are addressed with advanced and comprehensive orthopedic care under Dr. Kelly’s expert guidance. Catering to patients of all ages and activity levels, Dr. Kelly provides treatment for conditions such as arthritis, meniscus tears, and failed knee surgery. For more detailed information on specific knee conditions and the treatments available, please select the appropriate page.

Knee anatomy

The knee is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body. It joins the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). The smaller bone that runs alongside the tibia, known as the fibula, and the kneecap (patella) are the other bones that form the knee joint. Tendons connect the knee bones to the leg muscles, enabling movement of the knee joint. Ligaments join the knee bones and provide stability to the knee:

• The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) prevents the femur from sliding backward on the tibia or the tibia from sliding forward on the femur.
• The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) prevents the femur from sliding forward on the tibia or the tibia from sliding backward on the femur.
• The medial and lateral collateral ligaments prevent the femur from sliding side to side.

Two C-shaped pieces of cartilage, called the medial and lateral menisci, act as shock absorbers between the femur and tibia. Numerous bursae, or fluid-filled sacs, help the knee move smoothly.