Abstract
Abstract Purpose: Gap non-union of the patellar is rare worldwide though commonly found in developing countries where there is a dearth of orthopaedic surgeons. It is a management challenge to the surgeon in terms of approximation of the gap between the fragments as a result of the contracture involving the quadriceps. Methods: We present two cases of gap non-union of the patella treated by a one-stage procedure involving open reduction, tension band wiring with V-Y quadricepsplasty. Results: First case is a 57-year-old man who had repair of gap non-union of the left patellar, 21 months after injury. Second case is a 34-year-old lady who had repair of gap non-union of the left patellar, 5 years after injury. Conclusions: The satisfactory clinical outcome can be obtained including improved quality-of-life of the patient with this one-stage procedure.
Highlights
Patellar fractures are challenging injuries to the Orthopaedic Surgeon, when old and unreduced
The management of these conditions can be quite challenging on account of the contracture resulting from the shortening of the quadriceps muscle which makes open reduction and fixation by tension band wiring difficult [4]
We present a report of two cases with gap nonunion of the patella who were treated with the single-stage V-Y quadricepsplasty and tension band wiring with a satisfactory outcome
Summary
Patellar fractures are challenging injuries to the Orthopaedic Surgeon, when old and unreduced. Gap nonunion of the patellar is commonly found in developing countries where there is a flourishing practice of native bonesetters [3]. The management of these conditions can be quite challenging on account of the contracture resulting from the shortening of the quadriceps muscle which makes open reduction and fixation by tension band wiring difficult [4]. Nonsurgical measures may be tried in patients with low functional demands though surgery is necessary for improved outcome in more active patients [2]. Surgical measures may involve a single-stage procedure
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: SunKrist Journal of Orthopedics and Musculoskeletal Disorders
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
