Patella fracture

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Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Patella fracture
Synonyms	Fractured kneecap
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Knee pain, swelling, inability to straighten the leg
Complications	Arthritis, muscle weakness
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma to the knee
Risks	Osteoporosis, high-impact sports
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray
Differential diagnosis	Knee dislocation, quadriceps tendon rupture
Prevention	Use of protective gear in sports
Treatment	Rest, ice, compression, elevation, surgery
Medication	Pain relievers
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Patella fracture lateral view

Patella fracture

Patella Fracture is a type of bone fracture that occurs in the patella, also known as the kneecap. This type of fracture is often caused by direct trauma or force to the knee, such as a fall or blow.

Causes

The most common cause of a patella fracture is a direct blow to the knee. This can occur in a variety of situations, such as during a car accident, a fall, or a sports injury. Other causes can include a sudden contraction of the quadriceps muscle, which can pull on the patella and cause it to fracture.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a patella fracture can vary depending on the severity of the fracture. Common symptoms can include pain and swelling in the knee, difficulty walking or moving the knee, and a visible deformity in the knee. In severe cases, the patient may be unable to walk or move the knee at all.

Diagnosis

A patella fracture is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination and imaging tests. The doctor may perform a physical examination to check for signs of a fracture, such as swelling, tenderness, or deformity. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, can provide a detailed view of the knee and help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment for a patella fracture can vary depending on the severity of the fracture. In some cases, the fracture can be treated with non-surgical methods, such as immobilization with a cast or brace. In other cases, surgery may be required to repair the fracture and restore function to the knee.

Recovery

The recovery time for a patella fracture can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the treatment method used. In general, it can take several weeks to several months for the fracture to heal. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore strength and mobility to the knee.

See Also

• Bone Fracture
• Knee Injury
• Physical Therapy

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