Scintigraphic findings on examination of the multipartite patella

Bipartite or multipartite patella occurs in approximately 2-3% of the general population. In the setting of trauma, this entity may be confused with a fracture of the patella. The mechanism of injury, clinical symptomatology, and plain film findings are often helpful in distinguishing the two possibilities. However, cases do occur in which a fracture cannot be confidently excluded. This case demonstrates how scintigraphy may provide further clarification in this diagnostic dilemma.