Classification of the bifurcate ligament based on anatomical features and its clinical significance

doi:10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.1.04

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Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy ›› 2026, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (1) : 23-27. DOI: 10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.1.04

Classification of the bifurcate ligament based on anatomical features and its clinical significance

Zhao Tiantian^1,2, Wang Wei³, Peng Menglang¹, Wang Junqiu¹, Xie Yao⁴, Zeng Xingqian^1,2, Zhang Lei^1,3,5,6*

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Abstract

Objective To classify the bifurcate ligament (BL) based on its anatomical characteristics, and to provide anatomical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of ankle sprains. Methods The BL was classified in 47 preserved cadaver specimens, and the lengths, widths (proximal, middle, and distal), thicknesses, and bifurcation angles of the calcaneonavicular ligament (CNL) and calcaneocuboid ligament (CCL) were measured. Statistical analysis was conducted among different classifications. Results The BL was classified into 4 types. Type I accounted for 59.6%, Type II accounted for 25.5%, Type III accounted for 10.6%. A new type IV accounted for 4.3%. The shorter CCL was significantly shorter than that in Type II, and the bifurcation angle was significantly different from Type I and Type II (P<0.05). Conclusions The 4 anatomical classifications of BL are dominated by Type I. The new Type IV enhances the understanding of the complexity of BL. It provides morphological basis for the precise diagnosis and individualized treatment of ankle sprains.

Key words

Bifurcate ligament / / / Calcaneonavicular ligament / / Calcaneocuboid ligament / / / Anatomical classification / / / / Anatomical application

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Zhao Tiantian, Wang Wei, Peng Menglang, Wang Junqiu, Xie Yao, Zeng Xingqian, Zhang Lei. Classification of the bifurcate ligament based on anatomical features and its clinical significance[J]. Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy. 2026, 44(1): 23-27 https://doi.org/10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.1.04

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