A knee fracture, also known as a patella fracture, occurs when the patella (the round, flat bone commonly called the patella) breaks. The knee is a complex hinge joint consisting of the connection of three bones: the femur (thigh bone), the tibia (shin bone), and the patella (patella). This joint is essential for a variety of activities such as walking, running, and jumping, and allows the leg to bend and straighten.

The patella plays an important role in the function of the knee as it protects and supports the knee joint. The ligament connects the patella to the quadriceps muscle of the thigh and attaches to the shin bone. These ligaments stabilize the knee and allow smooth movement.

Knee fractures can have many causes, including trauma, falls, sports accidents, and direct blows to the knee. Knee fractures vary in severity, and doctors classify them based on the type of fracture and the displacement of the fracture. 

Here are some common types of knee fractures :

Non-displaced fracture: In a non-displaced fracture, the patella breaks, but the bone fragments remain in place. This type of fracture may not significantly affect the alignment of the knee, and conservative treatment such as immobilization and physical therapy may be sufficient.

Displaced fracture: In a displaced fracture, the position of the broken bone fragment changes. This can affect the position of the patella and may require more extensive treatment, such as surgery, to realign and stabilize the bone.

Comminuted Fracture: A comminuted fracture occurs when the patella breaks into several parts. This type of fracture is often more complex and may require surgery to reconstruct the patella and restore joint function.

Open Fractures: Open fractures increase the risk of infection because the skin over the broken bone tears. Prompt treatment is important to clean wounds, prevent infection, and treat fractures.

Diagnosis of a knee fracture typically requires a physical exam, x-rays, and additional imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to assess the extent of the injury. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the fracture and the patient’s general condition. Conservative approaches include rest, immobilization with a brace or cast, and physical therapy. More severe cases may require surgery to realign the bones, stabilize the fracture using hardware such as screws or wires, or rebuild the damaged patella.

Rehabilitation and physical therapy are often an essential part of recovery and help patients regain strength, flexibility, and function in the affected knee. Follow-up care is very important to monitor healing and address any complications that may occur during the recovery process.

What happens if the patella cracks or breaks ?

Patella fractures are usually caused by a direct impact to the knee. Depending on the force you apply, it may crack, break into two pieces, or break into small pieces. A patella fracture can prevent the knee extension mechanism from working properly. The quadriceps and patellar tendons attach to the patella and normally allow the knee to bend and straighten. The patella is covered with cartilage and acts as a cushion for the knee joint. This type of fracture can damage cartilage and can lead to post-traumatic arthritis.

Symptoms and Causes of Knee Fracture :

What causes the patella to break ?

Patella fractures are usually caused by a direct impact to the patella, such as a fall, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident. More rarely, it can also be caused by sudden muscle contractions in the knee.

What are the signs and symptoms of a patella fracture ?

• Pain.
• Swelling.
• Bruises.
• Palpable patellar defect (changes in the patella that can be felt through the skin).
• I can’t stretch my legs.
• Unable to lift outstretched leg.
• Unable to walk.

Can you walk even if your kneecap is broken ?

Patella fractures often result in an inability to walk. If you think it’s possible but still have pain, it’s best not to try it until you have a diagnosis. Once your patella fracture has been diagnosed and treated, you may be allowed to bear weight with a knee immobilization device, articulated knee brace, or cast in full extension. Your orthopedic surgeon will tell you how far you can bend your knee. At first you will not be able to bend your knees, but over time you will gradually be able to do so. You can carry as much weight as you feel comfortable with.

Diagnosis and Testing for Knee Fracture:

How is a patella fracture diagnosed ?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and what was happening at the time of your injury. Your knee will then be examined. You may need to try straightening your legs. If this is not possible, surgical intervention may be required. You may also be able to feel the end of the broken bone through your skin.

Check for open wounds or signs of arthropathy. Blood from broken bone fragments can collect in the joint and cause excessive swelling. An X-ray or CT scan may also be done to identify the fracture.

Management and Treatment How are patella fractures treated ?

Testing: Treatment of patella fractures depends on the type of fracture. Your doctor will first physically examine your knee to look for signs of arthropathy. Arthropathy may need to be treated first by draining some of the blood. Next, x-rays are taken to determine the type of fracture. If the fracture is stable, the bone can be expected to heal without surgery.

Surgery: If a piece of bone is out of place, it will need to be put back together surgically. The strong muscles in the knee tend to pull on the bone parts, making it difficult for the parts of the bones that are too far apart to join together again. The orthopedic surgeon may use screws, pins, plates, or wires to reconnect the bone parts. If the bone fragments are too small, the surgeon may remove them. Sometimes the tendon needs to be reattached to the bone.

Rest: You will go home in a cast, splint, or brace to keep your knee in place and limit movement while it heals. Your doctor will tell you how much weight you can bear and how far you can bend your knees. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as regular ice or elevation therapy, to reduce swelling.

Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is very important to restore knee mobility. This injury can cause stiffness and muscle weakness. You may need to train your knee to move the way it did before the injury. Physical therapy may be ordered that focuses on strengthening muscles, stretching, and range of motion exercises.