It’s the largestsesamoidbone in the body.
A sesamoid bone is one that is embedded in a tendon.
In the patellas case, it exists within thequadricepstendon.
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This article will discuss the anatomy and function of the patella.
It also covers the three main types of patella injuries and how to treat them.
For these people, the patella forms as two separate bones.
This is called abipartite patella.
In its whole and complete form, the patella is a flat, triangular-shaped bone that is fairly dense.
The apex, or point, of the patella, points downward toward the shin.
The base of the bone sits upward toward the thigh.
The base is also what attaches to the quadriceps tendon.
The back of the patella forms a joint with thefemur, otherwise known as the thighbone.
The patella is also attached by thevastus lateralisand medialis, which are muscles in the thigh.
The middle of the patella consists of openings for arteries to supply blood to the kneecap.
Different structures in the knee work together to keep the patella stabilized.
Location
The patella sits between the femur and the tibia.
It not only protects the knee joint but connects muscles in the front of the femur to the tibia.
This cartilage offers protection on top of added mobility with any knee movements.
Two of the most common conditions related to the patella are patellar tendonitis and patella dislocations.
Patella fractures can also occur.
This pain is due to tiny tears in the patellar tendon, which cause inflammation and weakening.
Patella Dislocations
In apatella dislocation, the patella slips outside its grooved position inside the leg.
This causes pain and swelling, as well as possibly tearing the ligaments that hold the patella in place.
Some people may not have a complete patella dislocation, but they can experience apatellar subluxation.
Treatment depends on the severity of the pain and tendonitis.
The only way to remedy patella dislocations is to relocate the patella back into its groove.
This may happen on its own shortly after dislocation or with the assistance of a healthcare provider.
With dislocation, the tendon may tear and fragments of bone may come loose.
While tendon tears usually repair on their own, bone fragments will likely need to be removed surgically.
Surgery may also be required depending on how severe the misalignment isor if it leads to frequent patellar dislocations.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
A surgeon will typically reattach the bone using screws, pins, and wires.
In very severe cases, they may remove all or part of the patella.
The healthcare provider can also help treat any damage to the surrounding ligaments and skin.
In less severe cases, you may be able to avoid surgery.
Instead, the healthcare provider may give you a cast or splint to stabilize the leg for healing.
Pain relievers, physical therapy, walking aids, and reducing weight-bearing on the knee may also be recommended.
Hubbard John.Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Knee Patella.Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing; 2019.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Kneecap fractures (patella fractures).
American Academy of Orthpaedic Surgeons.
Patellar (Kneecap Fractures).
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Mayo Clinic.
Teach Me Anatomy.The Patella.
University of Connecticut Health.Patellar Dislocation.
