Ortho & Trauma: Knee Flashcards
How to manage a dislocated patella
It will often pop back in by itself
If not it can be manipulated back in
?what analgesia to give
?gas and air
How to manipulate:
Lift the leg slightly
Gently and slowly extend the leg from the knee whilst applying medial pressure on the patella
Will meet some resistance - give the patella an extra push medially
Ideally attempt to do this extension and manipulation in one smooth movement
XR after reduction to ensure relocated
??XR before as well - definitely if there is trauma
Immobilise in a splint
Refer fracture clinic (some may need surgery e.g. if ligament damage or recurrent dislocations)
Give analgesia
Prognosis of a dislocated kneecap
Usually recovers in about 6 weeks
Often with physiotherapy
Sometimes needs surgery if ligament damage or if recurrent dislocations
