Clinical imaging · UKMLA & AKT
Patellar fractures
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test, covering how to recognise this condition. The full SA Note notes add investigations, management and complications, with practice questions on this topic.
Key high-yield points
- Anterior knee pain, swelling, and haemarthrosis after direct blow or sudden quadriceps loading
- Palpable gap - felt between fragments in displaced transverse fractures
- Inability to straight leg raise - defining sign of extensor mechanism disruption; also caused by quadriceps or patellar tendon rupture
The straight leg raise is the key clinical test. If intact, extensor mechanism is preserved and conservative management may be appropriate. If absent, assume extensor mechanism disruption - this is the trigger for surgical referral.
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