Kneecap fracture

A kneecap, or patella, fracture is a break in the bone at the front of the knee. Prompt specialist assessment is important because the kneecap plays a key role in straightening the leg and protecting the joint.

What causes a kneecap fracture?

It is usually caused by a direct blow to the front of the knee, such as a fall onto the kneecap or an impact during a collision.

What are the symptoms?

  • pain and swelling at the front of the knee
  • bruising or tenderness
  • difficulty straightening the leg
  • difficulty standing or putting weight through the knee
  • An open wound, visible deformity or inability to move the leg needs urgent medical assessment.

How is it diagnosed?

Your specialist will examine the knee and arrange X-rays to show the location and extent of the fracture.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on whether the pieces of bone are aligned and whether the mechanism that straightens the knee is working.

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What causes a kneecap fracture?

Treatment routes for Kneecap fracture

A stable fracture may heal without surgery. Treatment can include a brace or cast to hold the knee straight, temporary limits on weight-bearing and physiotherapy as healing progresses.

Working with professionals and teams

Our consultants support professional athletes, sports teams, active individuals and people whose work places repeated demands on their knees. Working closely with physiotherapists, strength and conditioning specialists and the wider multidisciplinary team, they develop personalised treatment plans that support a safe return to sport, work and everyday activities.

 

The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or recovery goals.

 

Working with professionals and teams

Our Experts - Leaders in Knee Treatments

Dedicated to restoring your mobility through advanced surgical care, tailored rehabilitation programmes, and compassionate, evidence-based patient support.

How to pay

We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance

If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.

Paying for yourself

Paying for yourself

You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.

 

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