My left knee has had a total joint replacement, it is about six years post-op. Last week I had a fall onto the kneecap. An x-ray was taken and the findings are an oblique line medial distal metaphysics cortex which continues distally paralleling and 2 to 3 mm deep to the surface of the medial condyle which appears to be a non-displaced fracture. No evidence of periosteal reaction. What does this mean? I cannot get an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon for some time, and I have no idea what to do for this knee. Thank you.
Hi, Thank you for providing the brief history of you. As the X-ray reveals there is an displaced fracture, it is nothing to worry much. The initial things you should do is to stabilize the knee with a knee cap and later take proper rest for 2-3 weeks. Also, no weight should be applied on the injured leg as it may increase the pain too. In the duration of bed rest, perform simple knee exercises as taught by physical therapist during the knee rehabilitation. In my clinical practice, we find cases complaining such and with proper bed rest, non weight-bearing and simple bed exercises patient recovers well. RegardsJay In Chat Doctor.