The gem in gastrocnemius: the fabella -Anatomical and radiological perspective.

ABSTRACT

Background: Sesamoid bones are small seed like bones which can be found in the hand, knee, and foot. Their unique structure works to protect the tendon, and to increase its mechanical effect. Examples of sesamoid bones include the os acromiale, os styloideum, metacarpal and hallux sesamoids, patella, os trigonum, os calcaneus secundarius, accessory navicular, os peroneum, and os intermetatarseum. The Sesamoid bones are so named because they resemble a sesame seed. WE present a brief description about Fabella , a small Sesamoid bone occasionally found in the lateral head of Gastrocnemius muscle, its surgical and medicl importance. Presence of Fabella can be confused with certain Orthopedic Problems.