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J Knee Surg
DOI: 10.1055/a-2376-6721
Special Focus Section

Patella Fractures after Total Knee Arthroplasty

Gabrielle Swartz
1   LifeBridge Health, The Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Mohamed Albana
2   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Orthopaedic Institute, New York, New York
,
Jeremy A. Dubin
1   LifeBridge Health, The Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Daniel Hameed
1   LifeBridge Health, The Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Sandeep S. Bains
1   LifeBridge Health, The Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Michael A. Mont
1   LifeBridge Health, The Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Ronald E. Delanois 
1   LifeBridge Health, The Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
,
Giles R. Scuderi
2   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Orthopaedic Institute, New York, New York
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Abstract

Periprosthetic patella fractures are a rare complication that can lead to severe disability following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). There are several factors that increase the risk of this injury, including patient comorbidities, anatomic considerations, and surgical technique. With these factors limiting healing ability in the area, periprosthetic patellar fractures can pose a major challenge to treat, with potentially lasting morbidity for affected patients. These fractures can occur at any time following TKA and are classified based on their associated implant stability and disruption of the extensor mechanism using the Ortiguera and Berry classification system. Each of the three types of fractures can be managed in their own unique way; however, outcomes remain poor, and the complication rates remain high regardless of fracture type. This article provides an overview of the current literature and the recommended management of periprosthetic patella fractures.

Keywords

total knee arthroplasty - complications - management


Publication History

Received: 07 May 2024

Accepted: 30 July 2024

Accepted Manuscript online:
31 July 2024

Article published online:
30 August 2024

© 2024. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.
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