Contourable craniofacial mesh plate osteosynthesis of patellar fractures: A new, low-profile fixation technique

Abstract

PurposePatellar fractures are challenging orthopaedic injuries that can be difficult to treat due to the complexity of fracture patterns, the high stresses at the patellofemoral joint, and subcutaneous location of the patella. Hardware prominence and need for hardware removal are two of the most common complications after surgical fixation of patellar fractures. There is an ever present need for low profile fixation constructs that are also biomechanically stable. Materials and methodsWe present an alternative technique of patella fixation with a low profile titanium mesh plate typically used in craniofacial skeletal trauma. Four patients at our institution underwent mesh plate fixation of patella fractures. ResultsAll four patients had union without any post-operative complications. All four patients regained preoperative range of motion without residual pain or disability. ConclusionsMesh plate fixation of patellar fractures is an alternative to standard tension band technique, especially in comminuted fractures. The craniofacial mesh plate is very low profile, provides stable fixation that allows for early range of motion, and has the potential to reduce post-operative complications like hardware removal.