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.

ligamentum mucosus

The knee joint opened widely and the patella lifted up to reveal the various plicae including the ligamentum mucosum.

relationship of ligamentum mucosum and fat pad

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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Synonyms: 
ligamentum mucosum
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Dr Sheila Strover (Editor)
BSc (Hons), MB BCh, MBA

See biography...