patellar reflex

patellar reflex definition - medical

patellar reflex

noun
A reflex contraction of the quadriceps muscle resulting in a sudden involuntary extension of the leg, produced by a sharp tap to the tendon below the patella. Also called knee jerk, knee-jerk reflex, knee reflex, quadriceps reflex.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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