Symptoms and signs of comminuted patellar fracture

We all know that the patella is an important part of the knee joint and is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body. If a comminuted fracture of the patella occurs, it will have a serious impact on our body. If it is not properly treated in the later stage, it will seriously affect the movement of the knee joint and even cause lifelong disability. The patella plays such an important role in our lives, so let us learn about the symptoms and signs of patellar comminuted fracture.

Symptoms and signs

The age of patellar fracture is generally between 20 and 50 years old, with more males than females, about 2:1.

After a patellar fracture, the knee joint often swells and accumulates blood. Skin abrasions and subcutaneous hematomas may be seen in front of the patella. There is obvious tenderness, and the fracture gap may be felt in displaced fractures. There is severe pain in the knee joint during passive movement, and sometimes a feeling of bone friction can be felt.

Patellar fractures are usually classified according to the location of the fracture, the appearance of the fracture, and the degree of displacement.

1. Non-displaced patellar fracture

(1) Non-displaced transverse fracture.

(2) Non-displaced comminuted fracture.

2. Displaced patellar fracture

(1) Transverse fracture of the middle third of the patella.

(2) Transverse fracture of the superior or inferior pole of the patella.

(3) Displaced comminuted fracture.

(4) Longitudinal fracture.

(5) Osteochondral fracture.

Transverse fractures are the most common, accounting for about 50% to 80% of all patellar fractures, most of which occur in the middle 1/3 or lower level; comminuted fractures account for 30% to 35%; longitudinal fractures and osteochondral fractures are the least common, accounting for 12% to 17%. Longitudinal fractures are often caused by direct violence on one side of the articular surface of the patella. Osteochondral fractures commonly occur in adolescents and are often associated with traumatic patellar dislocation or subluxation.

Above, we have recognized and understood the symptoms and signs of comminuted patellar fractures. When we have a certain understanding of the symptoms and signs of comminuted patellar fractures, I believe we have a deeper understanding of the protection of the body's bones, so we must take care of our bodies and avoid the above types of situations.