Knee fracture. Computer-enhanced X-ray of a knee joint showing pins (black) used to repair a fracture of the tibia (shin bone,centre to lower right). A knee fracture can involve any of the bones that form the knee joint. As well as the tibia,these are the femur (thigh bone,upper frame) and the patella (kneecap,light green,upper right). Knee fractures are caused by heavy blows to the knee,often sustained during car accidents,whilst playing sports,or during a fall. They cause severe swelling and an inability to bear weight on the affected leg. Treatment often involves surgical stabilization of the joint using metal pins,as seen here |