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Patella fracture

Case contributed by Andrew Murphy
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

High speed MVA

Patient Data

Gender: Male
x-ray

There is a comminuted patella fracture, with associated proximal retraction of the proximal fragment.

Case Discussion

The patella is a large sesamoid bone, having a significant role in the biomechanics of the lower limb. Fractures of the patella make up 1% of skeletal injuries 1, the most prevalent mechanism of injury is a direct impact. Most cases will require surgical intervention, yet stable non-displaced fractures may be considered for conservative management 2.

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