Patella Fracture Treatment
The kneecap, or patella bone, is vital for protecting the knee, and it contributes to function of the joint. This thin bone is situated over the connection of the femur and tibia, attached to the quadricep and tibia with tendons. Forceful impact to the knee can result in a patella fracture that can cause pain and impact knee function. At Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center, we provide patella fracture treatment at our Miami, FL, facility.
Patella fractures are very common due to the fragility of the kneecap. A blunt impact to the front of the knee can result in a simple or complex fracture of the patella. The bone is triangular in shape and the smallest bone in the knee. Motor vehicle accidents and falls can result in a patella fracture, or a sports injury may damage the kneecap.
Symptoms of a Broken Kneecap
If you endure a blow to the knee, you may have a patella fracture. There are many injuries that can have similar symptoms when the knee joint is damaged, so medical diagnosis is necessary. Some of the possible symptoms include:
- Tenderness and swelling around the kneecap
- Knee pain that increases when bending or extending the leg
- Visible deformity of the knee
- Difficulty straightening the leg completely
Simple kneecap fractures may only contain a hairline break in the bone, which may be able to heal with rest, ice and restricting movement of the knee. Complex patella fractures may include multiple cracks or a shattering of the bone, requiring surgery for repair. Screws, plates or other surgical hardware may be needed to restore the function of the kneecap after severe fractures. Kneecaps that cannot be repaired may need to be removed to prevent further pain and joint dysfunction.
If you have impact to the front of your knee followed by symptoms of a patella fracture, contact us at Jonathan L. Glashow, MD. We can provide a thorough exam and diagnosis to determine the best treatment for your knee injury. Call us at our Miami, FL, clinic to schedule an appointment.
