The patella is the largest sesamoid bone, embedded in the quadriceps tendon. Its posterior surface has medial and lateral articular facets (odd facet, the most medial) in contact with the trochlear groove, and its geometry determines patellofemoral contact areas. The trabecular pattern within the patella transmits quadriceps forces to the patellar tendon while resisting the compressive forces of the retropatellar cartilage.
An expanded entry for Patella.
| Articulations | |
|---|---|
| Landmarks |
|
| Ossification | The patella ossifies from multiple centres at 3-5 years. Bipartite patella (persistent secondary ossification centre at the superolateral pole, 2% of the population) can be confused with fracture but has smooth corticated margins and is bilateral in 50%. |
Patellar fractures from direct impact or eccentric quadriceps contraction require ORIF for displaced fractures (>3 mm gap or >2 mm articular step) to restore the extensor mechanism. Tension band wiring converts the distraction force to a compressive force at the articular surface. Comminuted inferior pole fractures with patellar tendon avulsion require inferior pole excision with patellar tendon reattachment.
A direct fall onto the knee or violent quadriceps contraction fractures the patella; displaced fractures need fixation.
Usually lateral, tearing the medial patellofemoral ligament, common in adolescents with maltracking.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
