Effectiveness of Physical Therapy in a Comminuted Patella Fracture Managed with Tension Band Wiring: A Case Report

Cureus. 2023 Dec 20;15(12):e50870. doi: 10.7759/cureus.50870. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

A patella fracture occurs when the patella bone, which covers the knee joint, breaks. A severe injury, such as a fall or a hit to the patella, is frequently the cause. There are two types of patella fractures: basic and complicated. The treatment of certain fractures necessitates surgery. Patella fracture symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, inability to straighten the leg, and inability to walk. Rehabilitation aims to increase the range of motion, increase muscles' strength, and make the patient functionally independent. We report the case of a 69-year-old female with a comminuted patella fracture managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with tension band wiring. A four-week inpatient rehabilitation increasing range of motion and improving strength has shown a tremendous improvement in the patient's symptoms.

Keywords: isometric exercises; patellar fracture; physiotherapy; rehabilitation; tension band wiring.

Publication types

  • Case Reports