Update: Made a follow-up visit to the orthopaedic doctor today. New x-rays, etc. The doctor is pleased with how things look. There is no separation of the broken-off wedge of kneecap from the rest, but it's too early to detect the formation of any new bone. But so far so good.
I asked more questions regarding how long I would be in this brace, and was told 8 to 12 more weeks! Then therapy to get movement and strength back.
I stopped in at my LBS this week inquiring if they had any suggestions regarding knee protection for when I am able to resume riding. They have a kind of combination knee/shin guard, made of a hard plastic, made for mountain bike riders. It's also available in a knee-only version.
At the orthopaedic doctor, I asked how many and what sort of bicyclist injuries they saw. "Knees and elbows" I was told. They said that bikes keep their doors open - and expensive doors they are, mind you.
Here I am with my new "steed":
