3D CONTENT
3D OSTEOLOGY
3D LOWER LIMB

PATELLA ANATOMY

Patella X-ray 360-degree interactive viewer showing internal bone structure, cortical bone density, and trabecular pattern

Patella - X-Ray View, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL STRUCTURE

Patella anatomy 360-degree interactive viewer showing the largest sesamoid bone with flat triangular shape, base, apex, and articular surface

Patella - General Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

The patella is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body, characterized by its flat and triangular shape with an anterior and posterior surface, three borders, and an apex. Located in front of the knee joint, it is embedded in the tendon of the quadriceps femoris.

Location

  • Located in front of the knee joint
  • Embedded in the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle

Shape and Characteristics

  • Flat and triangular shape
  • Two surfaces: anterior and posterior
  • Three borders and an apex

Functions

  • Protection
    • Protects the knee joint from external trauma
  • Mechanical advantage
    • Enhances the leverage of the quadriceps muscle during knee extension
    • Increases the efficiency of leg straightening

FEATURES

Base (Superior Border)

  • Structure
    • Thick and sloping downwards and forwards
    • Forms the upper border of the patella
  • Function
    • Attachment site for parts of the Quadriceps femoris muscle
    • Receives the quadriceps tendon

Apex

  • Structure
    • Pointed, lower part of the bone
    • Directed inferiorly (downward)
  • Function
    • Attachment site for the ligamentum patellae (patellar ligament)
    • Connects the patella to the tibial tuberosity

Articular Surface

  • Location
    • Posterior side of the patella
  • Structure
    • Smooth, oval-shaped area
    • Divided into two facets by a vertical ridge
    • Lateral facet is larger than medial facet
  • Function
    • Articulates with the patellar surface of the femur
    • Allows smooth gliding during knee movements
    • Covered with hyaline cartilage for friction reduction

Anterior Surface

  • Structure
    • Convex and rough texture
    • Perforated by small holes for nutrient vessels
    • Covered by expansions from the quadriceps tendon
  • Function
    • Provides protection to the knee joint
    • Attachment point for the quadriceps tendon
    • Subcutaneous and palpable through the skin

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.

⋮⋮ Patella Quiz
1/3 Score: 0