patella medical definition

1. A flat triangular bone located in the combined tendon of the extensors of the leg and covering the front surface of the knee joint. Also called kneecap.
2. A pan-shaped anatomical formation.

Related Forms:

• patellar, pa·telˈlate adjective

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patella

anterior (left) and lateral views of knee joint:

A. patella, B. femur, C. tibia, D. fibula