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patella alta
Pronunciation: pa-TEL-a AL-ta
Abnormally high position of the kneecap relative to the femur.
Full Definition
Patella alta refers to an abnormally high position of the patella (kneecap) in relation to the femur. This condition can be measured using various radiographic indices, with the Insall-Salvati ratio being commonly used. Patella alta may be congenital, developmental, or acquired following trauma or surgery. The high-riding patella can lead to patellofemoral instability, recurrent dislocation, and altered knee mechanics. Patients may experience anterior knee pain, giving way episodes, and difficulty with activities requiring knee flexion.
Usage
Usage note: Latin terminology; alta means 'high'. Contrast with patella baja/infera (low position).
In Context
- "The patient's recurrent patellar dislocations were attributed to underlying patella alta." — Sports medicine evaluation
- "Radiographic measurement confirmed patella alta with an Insall-Salvati ratio of 1.4." — Imaging assessment
Also known as
high-riding patella
Contrasted with
patella baja
patella infera
Don't confuse with
patella baja
normal patellar height