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A patellar fracture is a break in the kneecap (patella), a small, flat bone at the front of the knee that helps protect the joint and facilitates leg movement by connecting the thigh muscles to the shinbone. Patellar fractures often occur due to direct trauma, such as a fall or impact to the knee, or as a result of sudden, strong contractions of the quadriceps muscle. Symptoms include severe knee pain, swelling, difficulty straightening the leg, and, in some cases, visible deformity of the kneecap. Treatment for a patellar fracture depends on the severity and type of the break: • Non-surgical treatment: For stable fractures where the bone fragments remain aligned, immobilization with a cast or brace may allow the bone to heal naturally. • Surgical fixation: When the fracture is displaced or involves multiple fragments, surgery is often required to restore the integrity of the kneecap and knee joint. In surgical fixation, the procedure typically involves: 1. Repositioning the fracture fragments (reduction) to restore the shape and function of the patella. 2. Securing the fragments with hardware, such as wires, screws, or plates, depending on the fracture pattern. Techniques like tension band wiring are commonly used to compress the fracture and promote healing. After surgery, patients undergo a rehabilitation program to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee. Recovery times vary but may take several months. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to restore knee function and minimize the risk of long-term complications such as stiffness, weakness, or arthritis.
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