Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small, round, nodular bone embedded within a tendon: A sesamoid is a type of bone that develops within a tendon, typically where the tendon passes over a joint. Its primary function is to protect the tendon and improve its mechanical efficiency by altering the angle of muscle pull.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The patella, or kneecap, is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body.
  • Sesamoid bones in the foot can sometimes become inflamed, causing pain.
  • The surgeon identified a fractured sesamoid on the X-ray.

Advanced Usage

• "Sesamoid bone": The full anatomical term, often used interchangeably with "sesamoid" in medical contexts.

  • Sesamoid bones act like pulleys, providing a smooth surface for tendons to slide over.

• "Sesamoiditis": A medical condition referring to the inflammation of the sesamoid bones and/or the surrounding tendons.

  • The runner was diagnosed with sesamoiditis after complaining of persistent ball-of-foot pain.

Variants and Related Words

• Sesamoidal / Sesamoid (adj): Pertaining to or resembling a sesamoid bone.
  • The radiologist noted a sesamoidal structure near the joint.

Synonyms

• Ossicle: A general term for a small bone, which can include sesamoids.
• Nodular bone: Descriptive term highlighting its shape.

Related Phrases and Terms

• "Fabella": A specific sesamoid bone sometimes found in the tendon of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle behind the knee.
• "Accessory bone": A broader category that includes sesamoids and other supernumerary bones not typically present in all individuals.

Noun

1. any of several small round bones formed in a tendon where it passes over a joint