From the Research
Optimal Time Frame for Patella Surgery
The optimal time frame for patella surgery after initial fracture is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, some studies provide information on the timing of surgical treatment and its outcomes:
- Surgical treatment is recommended for fractures that disrupt the extensor mechanism or have greater than 2 to 3 mm of step-off and greater than 1 to 4 mm of displacement 1.
- The study by 2 does not provide information on the optimal time frame for patella surgery, but it reports a high rate of complications (57%) in patients who underwent surgery.
- According to 3, surgical treatment is necessary for fractures that are displaced more than 2 mm.
- The study by 4 reports that all fractures united, but 1 in 3 patients required surgery for implant-related symptoms, with a higher implant removal rate in patients under 60 years old.
- The case report by 5 describes a staged treatment of a chronic patellar sleeve fracture using the Taylor spatial frame, with surgery performed 12 months after the initial injury.
Key Considerations
Some key considerations for the timing of patella surgery include:
- The extent of displacement and step-off of the fracture 1, 3
- The presence of complications, such as loss of reduction or symptomatic hardware 2, 4
- The patient's age and overall health status 4
- The potential for staged treatment and reconstruction 5
Complications and Outcomes
The studies report various complications and outcomes, including: