Non-metallic fixation of transverse patella fracture using non-absorbable polyester suture

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the functional outcomes for the fixation of transverse patella fracture (TPF) using a transosseous suturing method with a non-absorbable polyester suture. A retrospective case series method was conducted on 37 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a transosseous suturing technique with a non-absorbable polyester suture at Lower Limb Department, Hospital for Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ho Chi Minh City, from 1/6/2020 to 1/6/2022. Results showed that the surgery time was 37.43±9.76 minutes; average follow-up time was 8.57±5.35 months. The results of facet joint after surgery and bone healing were 100% (very good and good); bone healing time was 14.22±2.78 weeks; rehabilitation time was 13.84±3.3 weeks; knee function according to Lysholm scale achieved very good and good results with the average score of 97.62±3.7 points; no hardware-related complications in the study. One patient fell again and broke the kneecap; 100% of the patients were satisfied after the treatment, especially with the reason that there was no need for a second surgery to get the instruments. In conclusion, the fixation of TPF using a transosseous suturing method with a non-absorbable polyester suture is safe and effective with no hardware-related complications and does not require a second surgery to instrument collection during the mean follow-up period of 8.57±5.35 months.