What holds the patella in place?Multiple Choicethe lateral epicondylethe quadriceps tendonthe medial condylethe lateral malleolusthe greater trochanter

To understand what holds the patella in place, it's important to consider the anatomy of the knee joint and the structures involved.

The patella, also known as the kneecap, is held in place primarily by the quadriceps tendon and its continuation as the patellar ligament. The quadriceps tendon connects the quadriceps muscles (located in the front of the thigh) to the patella, while the patellar ligament connects the patella to the tibia (the shinbone) below the knee.

Let's evaluate the options provided:

1. The Lateral Epicondyle: This is a bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow; it does not play a role in holding the patella in place.
2. The Quadriceps Tendon: This is the correct answer, as it connects the quadriceps muscles to the patella.
3. The Medial Condyle: This refers to the inner part of the knee joint that articulates with the femur and does not directly hold the patella in place.
4. The Lateral Malleolus: This is the outer ankle bone and is unrelated to the position of the patella.
5. The Greater Trochanter: This is a bony prominence on the femur where muscles attach, but it does not stabilize the patella.

Final Answer

The quadriceps tendon holds the patella in place.