Patella vs Sternum
| Property | Patella | Sternum |
|---|---|---|
| Latin Name | Os patellae | Os sternum |
| Type | Bone | Bone |
| Body System | Skeletal | Skeletal |
| Body Region | Thigh | Thorax |
| Function | The largest sesamoid bone in the body, embedded within the quadriceps tendon. Increases the mechanical advantage of the quadriceps muscle by increasing the lever arm for knee extension. | The flat bone in the center of the anterior chest wall. Protects the heart and great vessels. Provides attachment for the costal cartilages of the upper seven ribs and the … |
| Clinical Significance | Patellar fractures result from direct trauma or forceful quadriceps contraction. Patellar dislocation typically occurs laterally. Chondromalacia patellae (runner's knee) causes anterior knee pain from cartilage degeneration. | Sternal fractures occur from direct trauma (steering wheel injuries). Median sternotomy is the standard approach for open-heart surgery. Sternal bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are common diagnostic procedures. |
| FMA ID | 24485 | 7485 |
Full structure pages
Patella
Os patellae
The largest sesamoid bone in the body, the patella is embedded within the quadriceps tendon and increases the mechanical advantage of the quadriceps by lengthening its lever arm for extension of the knee. Triangular in …