Treatment approaches in patella fractures and the role of patellectomy in treatment

The patella is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body, and patella fractures account for approximately 1% of all fractures. The active extension mechanism is usually affected in the fractures of this bone, which has important roles in the knee extensor mechanism. Physical examination and direct radiography are usually sufficient for diagnosis. Although the treatment varies according to the fracture type and morphology, conservative or surgical treatment is preferred. K-wire and tension band technique are the most commonly used methods in surgical treatment. Partial or total patellectomy is not the primary treatment choice. Functional impairment is common after the treatment of patella fractures. In this review, patella fracture types are discussed and current treatment methods are reviewed.