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Fractures of the Patella

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European Surgical Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Abstract

Fracture of the patella occurs frequently due to its superficial localization under the skin. Clinical examination and standard plain radiographs are sufficient for diagnosis in most of the cases. Non-operative treatment is limited to simple non-displaced stable fractures. The majority of fractures are often treated by standard tension-band wiring. Salvage procedures such as total or partial patellectomy or grafting are reserved for complex comminuted fractures that cannot be treated by standard methods. Post operative care and/or early rehabilitation are essential for good functional results. The long term outcome of the knee joint and the development of potential secondary osteoarthritis depend on both the quality of the initial articular reduction and post injury rehabilitation.

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Weppe, F., Demey, G., Fary, C., Neyret, P. (2014). Fractures of the Patella. In: Bentley, G. (eds) European Surgical Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-34746-7_230

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