Patellar Fractures: A Clinical Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Traumatology

Background:

• Patellar fractures are prevalent knee injuries impacting the extensor mechanism.
• Understanding anatomy, biomechanics, and fracture patterns is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
• These fractures result from direct trauma, quadriceps contraction, or high-energy impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on patellar fractures.
• To cover anatomy, clinical evaluation, imaging, classification, and treatment options.
• To discuss conservative and surgical management, rehabilitation, and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current evidence on patellar fractures.
• Summary of diagnostic and classification methods.
• Overview of treatment modalities including conservative and surgical interventions.

Main Results:

• Non-displaced fractures with intact extensor mechanisms can be managed non-surgically with immobilization and physiotherapy.
• Displaced or complex fractures typically necessitate surgical fixation, with improved outcomes due to advanced imaging and plating.
• Common complications include hardware irritation, re-operation, quadriceps weakness, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Conclusions:

• Optimal patellar fracture management requires individualized assessment of fracture pattern, extensor mechanism integrity, and patient factors.
• Advances in technology have enhanced surgical outcomes for complex fractures.
• Careful follow-up is essential for managing potential complications and achieving satisfactory functional recovery.