[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.