The IPP-Fat Pad Complex is the anatomical connection of the infrapatellar plica and the fat pad.

Page updated December 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)

infrapatellar plica and fat pad being stretched with motion
Illustration showing how the IPP-fat pad complex can be stretched during knee extension.

 

 

Anterior knee pain related to the IPP-fat pad complex

In many patients - although not all - the infrapatellar plica or ligamentum mucosum is intimately connected to the Hoffa fat pad behind the patella and both are put on stretch when the knee is extended. Because the Hoffa fat pad is richly endowed with nerves, distortion of this structure can cause pain in the front of the knee.

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Peer-reviewed papers

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Synonyms: 
Hoffa body
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Dr Sheila Strover (Editor)
BSc (Hons), MB BCh, MBA

See biography...