Pes Anserinus: Anatomy and Pathology of Native and Harvested Tendons

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2019 Nov;213(5):1107-1116. doi: 10.2214/AJR.19.21315. Epub 2019 Jul 30.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to review the anatomy and pathology of the pes anserinus to increase the accuracy of imaging interpretation of findings affecting these medial knee structures. CONCLUSION. The pes anserinus, consisting of the conjoined tendons of the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles and their insertions at the medial aspect of the knee, is often neglected during imaging assessment. Common pathologic conditions affecting the pes anserinus include overuse, acute trauma, iatrogenic disorders, and tumors and tumorlike lesions.

Keywords: anterior cruciate ligament; gracilis; neotendon; pes anserinus; reconstruction; sartorius; semitendinosus.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
  • Autografts
  • Cumulative Trauma Disorders / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Knee Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Knee Joint / anatomy & histology
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Tendon Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tendon Transfer / methods
  • Tendons / anatomy & histology
  • Tendons / diagnostic imaging*