The patella has several articular surfaces.
May 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
The patella has two articular surfaces: the patellofemoral surface and the femoropatellar surface. The convex-concave structure of the patellofemoral surface closely matches the shape of the femoral condyles, allowing smooth flexion and extension of the knee joint. It also helps distribute weight across the knee joint, reducing wear on the patella. The femoropatellar articular surface assists in regulating the bending and straightening movements of the knee joint.
Under normal circumstances, the patella has two articular surfaces: the femoropatellar articular surface and the patellofemoral articular surface. The details are as follows:
1. Femoropatellar Articular Surface
Also known as the patellofemoral articular surface, this is located on the anterior side of the patella and has a convex shape. It articulates with the patellar ligament attached to the condyles at the distal end of the femur, forming the femoropatellar joint, which is an important component of the knee joint. The convex-concave structure of the femoropatellar articular surface closely matches the shape of the femoral condyles, allowing smooth flexion and extension of the knee joint. Additionally, it helps distribute weight borne by the knee joint, thereby reducing wear on the patella.
2. Patellofemoral Articular Surface
Also referred to as the tibiofemoral articular surface, this lies on the posterior side of the patella and has a concave shape. It forms the patellofemoral joint by articulating with the condyles on the anterior aspect of the tibia, serving as another key component of the knee joint. This articular surface assists in regulating the bending and straightening movements of the knee joint and helps maintain the stable positioning of the patella.
Any injury or disease affecting these two articular surfaces may impair the normal movement and function of the knee joint; therefore, timely treatment is necessary.
