Patellar tap

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Patellar Tap

Patellar Tap (pronunciation: puh-tel-er tap), also known as the Bulge Sign or Ballottement of the Patella, is a medical test used to detect the presence of excess fluid in the knee joint, a condition known as effusion.

Etymology

The term "Patellar" is derived from the Latin word "patella," which means "small dish," referring to the kneecap. "Tap" refers to the tapping motion used during the test.

Procedure

The Patellar Tap test is performed with the patient in a supine or sitting position. The examiner applies pressure to the suprapatellar pouch, causing the patella to press into the joint fluid. A positive result is indicated by the patella appearing to bounce or tap against the femur.

Related Terms

  • Effusion: The accumulation of fluid in a body cavity or joint.
  • Suprapatellar Pouch: An extension of the joint capsule of the knee.
  • Patella: The kneecap.
  • Femur: The thigh bone, which is the longest bone in the human body.
  • Ballottement: A medical palpation technique used to detect fluid in a joint.

See Also

External links

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