A novel technique of using a miniature plate in combination with tension band wiring to treat comminuted patellar fractures.

Abstract

Traditionally, tension band fixation has been used for treating simple fracture patterns; however, fixation remains a challenge, especially for comminuted fractures. We describe a new method of operation using a combination of a miniature plate with tension band wiring to treat comminuted patellar fractures. The aim of this technique is to transform complicate fractures into simple transverse fractures. As far as we know, no studies using a similar method have been found.The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a novel technique in which a miniature plate is used in combination with tension band wiring to treat comminuted patellar fractures.Between March 2013 and May 2015, 16 patients with closed, displaced, comminuted fractures of the patella were included in the present study. All subjects underwent fixation using a combination of a miniature plate with a tension band wire. Knee function and patient status were evaluated at 12 months using the Böstman knee score and Lysholm knee scale.The average follow-up period was 15.6 months (range, 12–20 months). At the 12-month follow-up, bone healing was satisfactory in all patients. The average postoperative Lysholm score was 91.6 ± 1.4 (range, 84–97). The average postoperative Böstman scale score was 26.4 ± 0.5 (range, 22–30), thereby indicating excellent results in 4 patients and good results in 12. No patients required reoperation.The results demonstrate that this new technique is an effective and safe treatment option for comminuted patella fractures, as it is associated with good clinical outcomes.