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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 shape, it has a broad superior base and a pointed inferior apex; its posterior surface articulates with the patellar surface of the femur, and its roughened anterior surface receives the quadriceps tendon. Direct trauma or forceful contraction of the quadriceps can fracture it, and dislocation typically occurs laterally. Chondromalacia patellae, sometimes called runner's knee, causes anterior knee pain as the cartilage on its undersurface degenerates.

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.

On this page
유형 Bone
신체 계통 Skeletal
신체 부위 Thigh
라틴어 명칭 Os patellae
FMA ID 24485

기능

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.

임상적 의의

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

References

  1. Foundational Model of Anatomy — FMA:24485 Reference anatomy ontology (University of Washington)
  2. UBERON — UBERON:0002446 Cross-species anatomy ontology (EMBL-EBI Ontology Lookup Service)
  3. Wikipedia — Patella Encyclopedia article (verified cross-reference)

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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.