Leg/Knee Case 3 Background

Patella fractures classically occur from falling directly onto the patella. These are frequently comminuted and damage articular cartilage. The patella can also fracture from indirect trauma, like a jumping injury when the knee rapidly flexes against a fully contracted quadriceps. These are less comminuted and more likely to be transverse and displaced.

Various subtypes of patella fractures include:

1) Transverse with or without comminution

2) Stellate

3) Longitudinal, marginal, or avulsion

4) Osteochondral fracture with patellar dislocation