[Purpose] Previous studies suggest that the infrapatellar-fat-pad is affected by aging
or knee osteoarthritis, and that the infrapatellar-fat-pad in knee osteoarthritis cases
may be associated with limited mobility during knee movement. This study aimed to
determine changes in the shape and volume of the infrapatellar-fat-pad between 30° and 0°
of knee extension in knee osteoarthritis cases and in young, healthy individuals, and to
characterize differences in patellar mobility, patellar tendon mobility, and length
between the groups. [Participants and Methods] We created 3D models of the
infrapatellar-fat-pad, the patellar tendon, and bones using sagittal MRI with the knee at
30° and 0°. The following four parameters were determined: (1) movement of the
infrapatellar-fat-pad; (2) infrapatellar-fat-pad volume; (3) angle and surface length of
the patellar tendon; and (4) patellar movement. [Results] Compared with the knee
osteoarthritis group, the healthy group showed (1) reduced anterior movement of the
infrapatellar-fat-pad; (2) smaller volume changes only in the infero-postero-lateral
portion; and (3) no changes in the angle of the patellar tendon to the tibial plateau
between 30° to 0°. [Conclusion] In conclusion, between 30° and 0°, (1) the
infrapatellar-fat-pad in patients with knee osteoarthritis exhibited less anterior
movement, and (2) the patellar tendon angle was diminished in patients with knee
osteoarthritis compared with those of young-healthy knees.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.