Learning objectives
This exhibit will showcase the most common fat pads in musculoskeletal imaging using a case-based format to illustrate their anatomic locations and highlight a spectrum of acute musculoskeletal abnormalities using a multimodality approach.
Background
Fat pads are normal anatomic structures that may become visible only when an abnormality is present,
making them useful indicators for acute musculoskeletal processes.
Imaging findings OR Procedure details
Hoffa’s Fat Pad
Normal Anatomy(Fig.
1)
The infrapatellar fat pad is located at the inferior aspect of the patella in the anterior knee joint and interposed between the joint capsule and the synovial lining of the joint cavity.
It is bounded superiorly by the inferior patella,
anteriorly by the knee joint capsule and patellar tendon,
inferiorly by the proximal tibia and the deep infrapatellar bursa,
and posteriorly by the synovial lining at the anterior aspect of the knee joint cavity.
Hoffa’s fat pad is anchored...
Conclusion
Imaging findings involving the periarticular fat pads play an important role in acute musculoskeletal imaging.
The radiologist should be familiar with the locations of the most important fat pads in the body and recognize a spectrum of acute musculoskeletal processes that can result in their abnormal appearance.
References
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2.
Zammit-Maempel I,
Bisset RA,
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The value of soft tissue signs in wrist trauma.
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1988;39:664-8.
3.
Jacobson JA,
Lenchik L,
et al.
MR imaging of the infrapatellar fat pad of Hoffa.
RadioGraphics.
1997;17:675-91.
4.
O’Dwyer H,
O’Sullivan P,
et al.
The fat pad sign following elbow trauma in adults.
J...