A knee fracture can be a break of any of the bones around the knee—Femur (thigh bone), Patella (kneecap), Tibia (shin bone).

The femur, patella, and tibia are the main bones around the knee. The femur is connected to the patella by the quadriceps tendon and the patella is connected to the tibia by the patellar tendon. Either of these important tendons can also be injured when a bone is broken.

There are many causes of a fracture around the knee. A very common cause is a car accident. A blow to the knee during almost any contact sport can also result in a fracture. Falls from heights or even sudden indirect forces, such as stumbling down stairs, can cause a fracture.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a knee fracture is made initially by a history of an acute injury to the area. On physical examination, there will be moderate to severe swelling and usually an inability to bear weight on the affected leg. X-rays will usually confirm the fracture but sometimes an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Image) or CT (Computed Tomography) scan may be needed to further assess the damage.

Treatment

Treatment for knee fractures is based on the severity of the fracture and the bone involved. Usually fractures of the femur require some form of surgical stabilization. Mild fractures of the patella can sometimes be treated with immobilization. Displaced patellar fractures, however, require surgery. Finally, tibia fractures are highly variable and need individual assessment prior to developing a treatment plan. Most surgery involves the placement of screws, plates, wires or rods.