Periprosthetic patellar fracture after an open knee dislocation.

We present a patient who sustained an open knee dislocation with a periprosthetic fracture of the patella and who was treated satisfactorily with tension band wiring and a conservative rehabilitation program. In addition to describing this unique combination of injuries, we review the literature on the treatment of periprosthetic patellar fractures. Although internal fixation of these fractures historically has provided unpredictable results, we think that it is warranted if the patella has adequate bone stock.