About this topic
The patella is part of the knee joint. The patella is also called the kneecap bone. It is shaped like a triangle. It protects the front of the knee. The powerful muscles of the front of the thigh attach to the patella. The patella helps these muscles straighten the knee. If this bone is broken, it is a patellar fracture. A patella can break just a little or can crack into many pieces. There are a few types of fractures: ‚
- The broken bones are lined up like they should be and stay in place. This type of fracture does not need surgery. This is called a nondisplaced or stable fracture.
- The broken bones are apart and do not line up like they should. You will most likely need surgery for this injury. This is called a displaced fracture.
- The broken bone is poking through the skin. You will most likely need surgery for this injury. This is called an open fracture.
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What are the causes?
- A blow to the knee like from a fall or car crash
- A sudden forceful movement of the thigh muscles
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Aged 20 to 50
- Seen twice as often in men
- Playing contact sports
What are the main signs?
- Pain over the front of the knee
- Bruising or swelling over the front of the knee
- Not able to straighten the knee
- Trouble walking
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will feel around your kneecap and knee. Your doctor may have you try to keep your knee straight and lift your leg up. Your doctor may order: ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
- Rest
- Ice
- Keeping the leg raised
- Cast or splint to keep your knee in straight
- Crutches to take the pressure off your injured leg
- Exercises
- Physical therapy (PT)
- Surgery will be needed if the bones are pulled apart.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Fight an infection
What problems could happen?
- Arthritis
- Muscle weakness in your leg
- Chronic pain
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Always wear a seat belt. Drive safely. Obey speed limits. Do not drink and drive.
- Stay active and work out to keep your muscles strong and flexible.
- Warm up slowly and stretch before you work out. Use good ways to train, such as slowly adding to how far you run. Do not work out if you are overly tired. Take extra care if working out in cold weather.
- Keep a healthy weight so there is not extra stress on your joints. Eat a healthy diet with calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones healthy.
- Wear the right equipment when playing sports.
Helpful tips
Ankle exercise can help prevent blood clots. Be sure to ask your doctor if you should do these. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00523 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚