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Patella fracture

Case contributed by J. Ray Ballinger
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fell while walking.

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Female
x-ray

A comminuted transverse fracture of the patella is noted; best seen on the lateral view.

Case Discussion

50-80% of all fractures of the patella are transverse; usually occurring from a severe contraction of the quadriceps muscle during trauma. Longitudinal and stellate fractures make up the rest; usually resulting from direct injury.

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