[Injury of the patella (author's transl)]

Fractures of the patella account for about 1% of all fractures. They result from the impact of direct or indirect forces. Various fracture types are distinguished. Treatment of simple transverse or oblique fractures consists of anatomic reduction, with special attention to perfect reconstruction of the retro-patellar gliding surface. Tension banding is used for fixation to achieve functional stability. Comminuted fractures in the pole region may require partial resection along with careful reconstruction of the extensor mechanism. In cases of complete communition of the patella, early patellectomy is recommended and gives better results than late patellectomy.