Patella

Os patellae

The patella is a triangular sesamoid bone with a broad superior base and a pointed inferior apex. Its posterior surface articulates with the patellar surface of the femur. The anterior surface is roughened for the quadriceps tendon attachment.

Type Bone
Système corporel Skeletal
Région corporelle Thigh
Nom latin Os patellae
FMA ID 24485

Fonction

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.

Signification clinique

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.

Questions fréquentes

What is the function of the patella?
The patella (kneecap) is a sesamoid bone embedded in the quadriceps tendon that improves the mechanical efficiency of knee extension. By increasing the moment arm of the quadriceps force, the patella reduces the muscle force required to extend the knee by approximately 33–50%. It also protects the anterior knee joint from direct trauma.
Where is the patella located?
The patella is located at the anterior aspect of the knee joint, within the quadriceps femoris tendon. Its posterior surface articulates with the femoral trochlea, forming the patellofemoral joint. Superiorly the quadriceps tendon attaches to it, and inferiorly the patellar tendon (ligament) connects it to the tibial tuberosity. It is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body.
What are common patella injuries?
Common patella injuries include patellar fractures (from direct impact or forceful quadriceps contraction), patellar dislocation (usually lateral, common in young females), and patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee), characterized by anterior knee pain during activities like climbing stairs or squatting. Chondromalacia patellae refers to softening and deterioration of the patellar articular cartilage.

Structures associées

articulation joint nutrient foramen conduit outer fibrous layer of periosteum capsular layer of periosteum periosteum pre-cartilage condensation pre-chondrogenic condensation postcranial axial skeleton axial skeleton radial element actinost cavity of bone organ bone organ cavity

Avertissement médical

Ce contenu est uniquement à des fins éducatives et informatives. Il n'est pas destiné à remplacer un avis médical professionnel, un diagnostic ou un traitement. Consultez toujours votre médecin ou un autre professionnel de santé qualifié pour toute question relative à un état médical. Ne négligez jamais un avis médical professionnel et ne tardez pas à le consulter en raison de quelque chose que vous avez lu sur ce site web.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.