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Patellar (Kneecap) Fractures
A patellar fracture is a break in the kneecap, a small bone at the front of your knee. This fracture can happen due to falling directly onto the knee, a hard blow during sports, or hitting the dashboard in a car accident.
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Types of Patellar Fractures:
- Stable Fracture: The bone pieces remain aligned.
- Displaced Fracture: Bone fragments are separated and misaligned.
- Comminuted Fracture: The bone shatters into three or more pieces.
- Open Fracture: Bone fragments pierce through the skin, increasing infection risk.
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Types of Patellar Fractures:
- Stable Fracture: The bone pieces remain aligned.
- Displaced Fracture: Bone fragments are separated and misaligned.
- Comminuted Fracture: The bone shatters into three or more pieces.
- Open Fracture: Bone fragments pierce through the skin, increasing infection risk.
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Recovery: Rehabilitation exercises will help regain knee motion and strength. Recovery time varies, but most patients return to normal activities within 3 to 6 months, depending on the fracture’s severity and treatment method.
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Complications:
- Posttraumatic Arthritis: Damage to cartilage can lead to arthritis.
- Muscle Weakness: Some patients may experience lasting quadriceps weakness.
- Chronic Pain: Persistent knee pain is common, potentially linked to arthritis and stiffness.