The patella, or kneecap, protects the front of the knee and helps the quadriceps muscles straighten the leg. A fracture can disrupt this function, making it painful or impossible to bend the knee, walk, or raise the leg.
Dr. Brian Cohen has performed more than 30,000 orthopedic surgical procedures and provides individualized patellar fracture treatment in Columbus, OH. The recommended approach depends on the fracture pattern, whether the bone fragments remain aligned, and whether the knee’s extensor mechanism is still functioning.
About Your Knee
The knee is formed by the femur, tibia, and patella. The patella is a small bone at the front of the joint that protects the knee and improves the leverage of the quadriceps muscles.
The kneecap works with the quadriceps tendon and patellar tendon to help straighten the leg. Because it sits directly at the front of the knee, it is vulnerable to fractures caused by falls, collisions, and other direct impacts.
Patellar Fracture Causes
A patellar fracture may result from either a direct impact or a forceful muscle contraction.
Common causes include:
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Falling directly onto the knee
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Striking the knee against a dashboard during a motor vehicle collision
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Sustaining a direct blow during sports or another activity
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A sudden, forceful contraction of the quadriceps that pulls the patella apart
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A relatively minor injury in someone with osteoporosis or weakened bones
Anyone who develops severe pain, swelling, deformity, or an inability to straighten the leg after a knee injury should seek prompt medical evaluation. An open wound over the fracture or bone visible through the skin requires emergency care.
Patellar Fracture Symptoms
Symptoms vary according to the severity and pattern of the fracture. They may include:
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Sudden, intense pain at the front of the knee
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Swelling and bruising around the kneecap
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Pain when bending or moving the knee
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Difficulty bearing weight or walking
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Inability to straighten the leg
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Difficulty performing a straight-leg raise
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A visible gap, irregular shape, or deformity of the kneecap
An open wound over the kneecap, visible bone, severe deformity, or loss of sensation below the knee requires immediate medical attention.
Patellar Fracture Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a discussion of how the injury occurred and whether the patient can bear weight, straighten the knee, or raise the leg. Dr. Cohen or one of his sports medicine colleagues will examine the knee for swelling, tenderness, wounds, deformity, range of motion, and the function of the extensor mechanism.
X-rays are typically used to confirm the fracture and show whether the bone fragments remain aligned. A CT scan may be ordered for a complex fracture pattern, while MRI may be considered when additional tendon, ligament, or cartilage damage is suspected.
Patellar Fracture Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the fracture pattern, the amount of displacement, the stability of the bone fragments, and whether the knee’s extensor mechanism remains intact. Dr. Cohen also considers the condition of the surrounding skin, the patient’s overall health, and functional needs when recommending care.
Nonsurgical Treatment
Nonsurgical treatment may be appropriate when the fracture fragments remain properly aligned, and the patient can still straighten the knee.
Treatment may include:
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A knee immobilizer, cast, or brace to restrict movement
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Crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair when needed
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Pain-relieving medication
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Temporary limits on weight-bearing
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Follow-up X-rays to monitor healing
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Physical therapy after the fracture has stabilized
Physical therapy after the fracture has stabilized
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended when the fracture fragments are significantly displaced, the patient cannot actively straighten the leg, the joint surface is disrupted, or the fracture is open.
During surgery, Dr. Cohen realigns the bone fragments and secures them in a position that supports healing and restores the surface of the knee joint. Depending on the fracture pattern, fixation may involve screws, plates, wires, sutures, or a combination of techniques.
If a small fragment is too damaged to repair, a portion of the patella may occasionally need to be removed while preserving as much healthy bone and tendon attachment as possible. Complete removal of the patella is rarely necessary.
Recovery may take several months and varies according to the fracture severity, treatment performed, and the patient’s overall health. Physical therapy is commonly used to restore motion, strength, and walking ability while protecting the healing fracture.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Patellar Fracture Care in Columbus, OH
A kneecap fracture can affect walking, knee movement, and the ability to straighten the leg. Dr. Cohen evaluates the fracture pattern, bone alignment, and knee function before recommending immobilization, rehabilitation, or surgery. Prompt treatment can help support proper healing and reduce the risk of long-term stiffness or weakness. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
