Category: Airway Management
Keywords: Patella, Fracture (PubMed Search)
Posted: 12/13/2009 by Michael Bond, MD
(Updated: 10/9/2024)
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Patella fractures are typically due to direct trauma as in a fall or direct blow to the knee.
Fractures may be missed on the AP view or misdiagnosed as a bipartate fracture. To avoid these pitfalls look closely at the lateral view and consider getting a sunrise view of the knee (better visualizes the patella). Finally, unilateral bipartate patella are very rare so consider an x-ray of the contralateral knee if you are considering this as your diagnosis.
Surgery should be considered for: