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Anterior interval arthrofibrosis

Anterior interval arthrofibrosis is the condition of abnormal scarring in the 'anterior interval' - the space below the kneecap and behind the patellar tendon.

In these three images below, firstly identify (in brown) the bones of the femur, tibia and patella. The circle shows the area of the anterior interval, below the patella.

Abnormal scarring in this area has the effect of tethering the patella down, and pulling it into the abnormally low position known as patella infera (or patella baja).

Patella infera can be a difficult problem to manage, and surgery for patella infera caused by anterior interval arthrofibrosis may involve the procedure of anterior interval release.