Cyamella

Cyamella

The cyamella is a small sesamoid bone found in the tendon of the popliteus muscle. It is a rare anatomical variant and is not present in all individuals. The cyamella is typically located in the posterior aspect of the knee joint, where it can be identified through imaging techniques such as X-ray or MRI.

Anatomy

The cyamella is situated within the tendon of the popliteus muscle, which is a key muscle in the posterior compartment of the leg. The popliteus muscle plays a crucial role in unlocking the knee from a fully extended position by medially rotating the tibia on the femur. The presence of the cyamella can influence the biomechanics of the knee joint and may be associated with certain clinical conditions.

Clinical Significance

The cyamella is generally asymptomatic and often discovered incidentally during imaging for other conditions. However, in some cases, it can be associated with knee pain or discomfort, particularly if it becomes inflamed or if there is associated tendinitis. The presence of a cyamella can also complicate surgical procedures involving the knee, such as arthroscopy or total knee replacement.

Imaging

The cyamella can be visualized using various imaging modalities. On an X-ray, it appears as a small, rounded ossification within the tendon of the popliteus muscle. MRI provides a more detailed view, allowing for the assessment of the surrounding soft tissues and any potential inflammation or pathology associated with the cyamella.

Related Pages

• Popliteus muscle
• Sesamoid bone
• Knee joint
• Tibia
• Femur
• X-ray
• MRI
• Tendinitis
• Arthroscopy
• Total knee replacement