[Patella fractures]

Abstract

Patella fractures are relatively uncommon, accounting for approximately 0.5% to 1.5% of all skeletal injuries. The most common mechanism for this injury is direct fall onto the knee, and transverse fracture is the most common type. The aims of operative treatment are accurate reduction and rigid fixation. Stable fracture types without or with minimal dislocation can be treated nonoperatively. Dislocation of more than 2 mm and comminuted fractures are indications for operative treatment. Tension band wiring, interfragmentary screw fixation, and the combination of cerclage wiring and screw fixation are used for internal fixation of these fractures. When accurate reduction and reconstruction of the retropatellar joint surface cannot be achieved in multi-fragmentary fractures, partial or total patellectomy should be considered. Since it always results in loss of quadriceps muscle power, the decision for this procedure should be made cautiously.