Question

Which one of the following is a sesamoid bone?
A. Pelvis
B. Patella
C. Pterygoid
D. Pectoral girdle

Answer 1

Hint: Sesamoid bone can be defined as a small independent bony lump that develops in a tendon and generally seen in a typically angular structure of the body like the hands and feet. An example is – kneecap the large sesamoid bone in the human body.

Complete answer: The word sesamoid is derived from the Latin word ‘sesamum’ means sesame seed.
The name suggests the small size of sesamoids.
These sesamoid bones develop in response to strain. It can be present as a normal variant also.
The patella, commonly known as the kneecap, is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body. The patella is a thick, circular, or triangular bone that is connected with the femur and makes a cover to protect the anterior articular surface of the knee joint.
Sesamoid bones act like pulleys that provide a smooth surface to the tendons for sliding over to increase the ability of the tendon that helps to transmit muscular forces.

Hence, the correct answer is option B. Patella.

Note: Here is a list of sesamoid bone that is present in the human body:
1. The patella is present on the knee.
2. Two sesamoid bones are found in the distal portions of the first metacarpal bone and the second metacarpal bone respectively in the hand.
3. The pisiform of the wrist is an example of a sesamoid bone.
4. In the first metatarsal bone of the foot, two sesamoid bones are seen.
5. The hyoid bone of the neck is free-floating and is an example of a sesamoid bone.
6. The lenticular process of the incus of the ear is considered as a sesamoid bone.