The Irreducible Patella in the Elderly Patient: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION: Patella dislocation is a common knee injury that can usually be treated with closed reduction. However, changes in bone structure, such as development of osteophytes with aging, can lead to the irreducible patella that requires surgical intervention. CASE REPORT: This case report describes an irreducible patella dislocation in an 81-year-old woman that required open reduction and repair due to an unusual osseous defect and buttonholing of the adjacent soft tissue. This patient represents the oldest reported case of irreducible patella, with multiple etiologies contributing to the presenting pathology. CONCLUSION: Patella dislocation is a common knee pathology seen by a variety of healthcare workers. Closed reduction is not always feasible, particularly in the aging population, notably due to degenerative architectural and composition changes to the bone and joint. Early recognition of such patients leads to proper imaging and treatment.