In a previous paper the authors have demonstrated that the polycentric curve of the surface of the medial condyle of the femur is a logarithmic spiral arch whose centre is the point of attachment of the medial ligament. In the present study, the totality of the menisco-ligamentous system was considered and studied on cadavers following a geometric model. It is shown that the ligament system controls combined or successive movements of gliding or rotation of the condyle on the tibial plateau in such a way as to avoid any cam effect or additional strain. Division of ligaments or excision of a meniscus leads to an increase in strain which varies in relation to the type of lesion. The increase is moderate after division of the anterior cruciate ligament, greater after division of the posterior cruciate ligament and severe after meniscectomy especially when associated with ligamentous division.