Patella fracture

Question 1

What is the common mechanism behind a patella fracture?

Answer 1

Direct trauma to the patella

Question 2

How does a patella fracture present?

Answer 2

Anterior knee pain following trauma
Pain is made worse with movement
Unable to straight leg raise (due to damage of extensor mechanism)
Swelling
Bruising
Visible and palpable patella defect may be seen

Question 3

What is a bipartite patella?

Answer 3

A congenital condition where there is failure of patella fusion leaving two separate bone fragments. This may be mistaken as a fracture on imaging.

Question 4

How is a patella fracture investigated?

Answer 4

X- RAYS - three views

• anteroposterior
• lateral
• skyline

Question 5

How are patella fractures managed?

Answer 5

Conservative - If non displaced - brace or cast. Physiotherapy.

Surgical - if significantly displaced or compromised extensor mechanism.

• open reduction and internal fixation with tension band wiring
• or screw fixation

Question 6

What are some complications of patella fractures?

Answer 6

Loss of range of motion

Secondary osteoarthritis