Patellar dislocation

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Patellar dislocation
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Knee pain, swelling, instability
Complications	Recurrent dislocation, osteoarthritis
Onset	Sudden, often during sports or trauma
Duration	Varies, can be acute or chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, congenital factors, ligament laxity
Risks	Adolescence, female gender, sports participation
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray, MRI
Differential diagnosis	Knee sprain, meniscus tear, ACL injury
Prevention	Strengthening exercises, knee braces
Treatment	Reduction (orthopedic), physical therapy, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment, risk of recurrence
Frequency	Common in adolescents and young adults
Deaths	N/A

Diagram of the knee

Patellar dislocation (AP view)

Lateral patellofemoral angle

Lateral and medial joint space of patella

Patella luxation (coronal view)

Patellar Dislocation is a medical condition where the patella or kneecap moves out of its normal location. It often occurs as a result of a sudden change in direction when the leg is planted on the ground. The patella moves out of the groove and stays to the outside of the knee.

Causes

Patellar dislocation can occur due to a variety of reasons. It can be caused by a direct blow or sudden twist of the knee, or it can occur due to weak muscles and ligaments that support the knee joint. Other factors that can contribute to patellar dislocation include hypermobile joints, flat feet, and a high-riding patella.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of a patellar dislocation include pain and swelling in the knee, inability to straighten the knee, feeling of the knee giving way, and visible deformity, with the kneecap being out of place.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of patellar dislocation is usually made based on a physical examination and medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and to check for any associated injuries such as bone fractures or damage to the ligaments.

Treatment

The treatment for patellar dislocation depends on the severity of the dislocation and the patient's overall health. Initial treatment often involves reducing the dislocation, which is the process of putting the kneecap back into place. This is usually followed by immobilization of the knee using a knee brace or cast. Physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve its stability. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair damaged structures or realign the knee joint.

Prevention

Prevention of patellar dislocation involves strengthening the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce the risk of dislocation.

See also

• Knee pain
• Knee injuries
• Physical therapy

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