Presentation
Fall at the races. Tender patella.
Patient Data
Age: 55 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Fabella
{"current_user":null,"step_through_annotations":true,"access":{"can_edit":false,"can_download":true,"can_toggle_annotations":true,"can_feature":false,"can_examine_pipeline_reports":false,"can_pin":false},"extraPropsURL":"/studies/25940/annotated_viewer_json?iframe=true\u0026lang=us"}
No fracture or malalignment. No definite knee joint effusion. Pre-patella soft tissue swelling consistent with bruising/hematoma given recent history of trauma. Incidental note of a fabella.
From the case:
Fabella
{"current_user":null,"step_through_annotations":true,"access":{"can_edit":false,"can_download":true,"can_toggle_annotations":true,"can_feature":false,"can_examine_pipeline_reports":false,"can_pin":false},"extraPropsURL":"/studies/25941/annotated_viewer_json?iframe=true\u0026lang=us"}
Red circle highlights the fabella.
Case Discussion
A fabella is a common accessory ossicle found in the lateral tendon of the gastrocnemius. It should not be confused for a fracture or an ossified intra-articular body.
Pre-patella soft tissue swelling is well seen on lateral knee radiographs and important to comment on as it is often clinically confused for a joint effusion.