Lateral Patellar Plica

plica synovialis lateralis patellae

The lateral patellar plica is a synovial fold on the lateral aspect of the knee joint, less commonly symptomatic than the medial plica. When thickened, it may impinge between the lateral patellar facet and the lateral femoral condyle, producing lateral knee pain mimicking lateral meniscal or iliotibial band pathology.

Region: Knee

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

A synovial remnant with no functional role; becomes a pain source when fibrotic.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Lateral plica syndrome is less common than medial plica syndrome but should be considered in athletes with lateral knee pain and a snapping sensation that does not respond to ITB treatment. Arthroscopic assessment of the lateral compartment directly visualises the plica. Resection is effective when the plica is fibrotic and impinging. It is distinguished from ITB syndrome by its joint-line level symptoms rather than the distal femoral epicondyle level.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Lateral Plica Syndrome

Lateral knee pain and snapping from fibrotic lateral patellar plica impingement, mimicking ITB syndrome but localising to the joint line rather than the lateral femoral epicondyle, treated by arthroscopic resection.