Final answer:
The statement is true; the patella is a sesamoid bone embedded within the quadriceps femoris muscle tendon. It protects the quadriceps tendon and increases the efficiency of the quadriceps muscle, also providing knee joint stabilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the patella is a sesamoid bone housed within the quadriceps femoris muscle tendon is True. The patella, also known as the kneecap, is the largest sesamoid bone in the body. It is embedded within the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle, which is a powerful muscle located at the front of the thigh. The primary function of the patella is to protect the quadriceps tendon from friction against the distal femur during knee movements.
The patella articulates with the patellar surface of the femur, acting as a shield for the tendon, and also serves as a lever to increase the efficiency of the quadriceps femoris muscle in extending the leg at the knee joint. Additionally, the patella assists in providing support and stabilization for the knee joint. Therefore, the patella plays a crucial role in knee mechanics and protection of the quadriceps tendon.