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Patellar dislocation

THIS PAGE WAS LAST REVIEWED 16-01-2019

Patellar dislocation

History

  • Young
  • Traumatic twisting injury
  • Could be minor twist
  • Possible direct trauma
  • May have history of previous episodes
  • Swelling
  • Relocation? Spontaneous or A&E assisted?

Signs

  • Limp
  • May be swelling
  • Loss of range of movement
  • Patella apprehension test positive
  • Quads inhibition
  • Pain around patella on palpation
  • Confirm SLR – is extensor mechanism intact?

Secondary care referral

  • Immediate if X-Ray shows avulsion fragment
  • For recurrent dislocations IF have completed extensive rehabilitation

Primary care investigations

  • X-Ray

Primary care treatment

  • Analgesia
  • PRICE (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
  • Physiotherapy
  • Brace