Patellectomy for Comminuted Patella Fracture - Case Study Report

Largest sesamoid bone with a several number of functions is the patella. The main function of patella includes extension of knee and preventing knee joint form trauma by acting as a shock absorber. It also acts as a lubricator by nourishing the articular cartilage of the distal femur. Among all skeletal injuries, patella fractures accounts for about 1% in both children and adults. The reason behind the patella often get injury is, it is present in the subcutaneous region making it more prone to injury. A 18 years old male patient was brought to male surgical ward with complaints of pain and swelling of left knee, bleeding in the knee region due to accidental fall. On examination swelling and bleeding of injured area was seen. Though patellectomy is the only best approach for treating comminuted fracture of patella, future risks of fracture, and complications like knee stiffness, extensor weakness and osteoarthritis may be reported. Thus, the patient should be involved in decision making for better therapeutic approach and better life-style of the patient.