Bilateral simultaneous fractures of the patellae: A review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction

Bilateral simultaneous fractures of the patellae constitute an uncommon phenomenon. The aim of this review is to systematically evaluate existing literature on bilateral patella fractures, specifically traumatic fractures, with special focus to mechanism of injury, fracture type, management options, and outcomes.

Methods

A comprehensive search for literature was conducted in PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, including the period from January 01, 1913 to December 31, 2023.

Results

The search for reviews resulted in a total of 18 studies. The review included a total of 19 patients with bilateral simultaneous fractures of the patellae. Out of the 19 patients included, 13 were male and six were female. The mean age was 42.1, with a range of 17 years to 85 years. The mean follow-up was 9.3 months (2–24 months).

Conclusion

Trauma represents the most common injury mechanism in patients with bilateral simultaneous patella fractures. Knee bracing leads to improved outcomes in individuals with bilateral simultaneous patella fractures.