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Bone Knee

Patella

patella

The patella is the largest sesamoid bone in the body, embedded within the quadriceps tendon and articulating with the patellar surface of the femur. It increases the mechanical advantage of the quadriceps by acting as a lever, but its tracking within the trochlear groove is frequently disrupted by muscle imbalance.

Region: Knee
Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The patella is the largest sesamoid bone in the body, embedded within the quadriceps tendon to increase the mechanical advantage of the quadriceps by approximately 50 percent at full extension. Patellar fractures from direct blows or eccentric quadriceps contraction require fixation when the extensor mechanism is disrupted. Bipartite patella from separate ossification centres occurs in 2 to 6 percent of people and can be confused with fracture.

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