How Early Should A Fractured Patella Be Fixed?

Posted on Tue, 2 Dec 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 2 Dec 2014 Answered on

Sat, 27 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : How long can you wait to have a fractured patella with a 1 inch separation between the 2 pieces before further damage is done. I was sent home from the ER 5 days ago with an immobilizer for my knee. I have buries and swelling, the buries are increasing in size. The ER DR referred me to an orthopedic Dr but my appointment is not until the end of the week.

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (-5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
There is no emergency in operating immediately!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this fractured patella that you have mentioned. There is no problem waiting up to the end of the week for your appointment. As it was immobilized and pain being managed, you are okay. Generally, surgeons would want too examine fully when he inflammation is subsided and only operate then if need be. With the fracture and joint immobilized, there is no further damage that can be done to the fracture site and surrounding tissue.

Bruises are sustained during the accident and would not increase with time or are you mentioning that this area is infected? If that be the case, then I will suggest that you provide an image of this joint for me to review and see if there is a skin infection and whether there is need for immediate action now.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thank you so much for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar