3] Although bipartite patella is usually asymptomatic, it can become painful following overuse or injury.
Most patients with symptomatic bipartite patella respond well to conservative treatment (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, bracing, and physiotherapy to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstring muscles).
Painful bipartite patella secondary to a gouty tophus was first reported by Hiroyuki Enomoto in 2006.
We concluded that tophi around the bipartite patella should be treated by a combination of surgical excision and uricosuric agents to prevent deposition causing recurrence of gouty attacks and to preserve the second part of patella as much as possible.
