A Comprehensive Review of the Fabella Bone.

Cureus. 2018 Jun 5;10(6):e2736. doi: 10.7759/cureus.2736.

Dalip D, Iwanaga J, Oskouian RJ, Tubbs RS.

---

Abstract

The fabella is a sesamoid bone that is embedded in the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle and often articulates directly with the lateral femoral condyle. It is present in 10-30% of the general population with a higher incidence in Asians. The fabella can lead to various pathologies such as fabella pain syndrome and common fibular nerve palsy. Conservative treatment involves physical therapy or injecting local anesthetics or steroids around this bone. However, if symptoms persist, then a fabellectomy can be performed. Physicians should be aware of the fabella bone and the multiple pathologies associated with it in order to provide the best treatment and management for patients.

KEYWORDS:

anatomy; fabellectomy; femoral condyle; gastrocnemius; knee pain; sesamoid; shock wave therapy; variations

Figure 1

Posterior view of the distal left thigh and proximal leg.

Note the fabella as seen within the proximal tendon of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius.

Figure 2

Zoomed in view of Figure ​Figure11 noting the fabella (circle).

After removal (right image), the fabella was found to be bony in nature and approximately 1 cm in diameter.