Infrapatellar plica

Written by Dr Sheila Strover on March 14, 2025

The infrapatellar plica is a filmy structure - not always present - that stretches from the notch of the femur to the fat pad. It is also commonly referred to as the ligamentum mucosum.

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The knee joint opened widely and the patella lifted up to reveal the various plicae including the ligamentum mucosum.
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Side view of the knee, showing how the infrapatellar plica (also known as the ligamentum mucosum) is related to the fat pad.

What use is the infrapatellar plica?

This structure is not present in every knee. It is also frequently removed to improve access during keyhole surgery of the knee, without apparent ill effect.

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Plica syndrome, IPP-Fat Pad Complex

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