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. 2013 May;47(3):313-6.
doi: 10.4103/0019-5413.111514.

Localized nodular synovitis of the infrapatellar fat pad

Jong-Hoon Park  1 , Kyung-Han Ro, Dae-Hee Lee
Affiliations

Localized nodular synovitis of the infrapatellar fat pad

Jong-Hoon Park et al. Indian J Orthop. 2013 May.

Abstract

We report a case of localized nodular synovitis of the infrapatellar fat pad impinging on the patellofemoral joint causing limitation of extension. Arthroscopy involved use of a superolateral portal because location of lesion hindered access via a conventional anterior portal. The infrapatellar mass impinged in the patellofemoral joint upon knee extension and retracted upon flexion. Superior-superior triangulation allowed for complete excision of the mass.

Keywords: Arthroscopy; infrapatellar fat pad; localized nodular synovitis.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
(a) T1 weighted image showing the well-defined oval-shaped mass with intermediate signal intensity located superior to the infrapatellar fat pad and between the distal half of the retropatellar region and the distal femur trochlea. (b) T2 weighted image showing that the mass appears as inhomogeneous, and with relatively hyperintense signal intensity with hypointense areas. Note the fibrotic thickening of the infrapatellar plica (white arrows) which traverses the fat pad and connects to the mass
Figure 2
Figure 2
Arthroscopic view showing the round, pan-shape nodular brownish mass impinged in between the patellofemoral joint at full extension (a) which then retracted when the knee was flexed at greater than 30° (b)
Figure 3
Figure 3
Peroperative photograph showing the gross appearance of the resected mass, with yellowish and fibrous cut surfaces
Figure 4
Figure 4
Histological examination of the mass. (H and E stain ×100 magnification). Note the admixture of osteoclast-type giant cells and mononuclear cells in a collagenous stroma. These features are typical of localized nodular synovitis
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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