A clinical comparison study of three different methods for treatment of transverse patellar fractures

Background

Tension bands structures are widely used to treat transverse patellar fractures. However, many implants-related complications have been reported. The purpose of this study is to evaluate effects and compare complications of three methods used to treat transverse patellar fractures, including titanium cable tension bands, compression screws with titanium cable cerclage, and X-shaped plating technique.

Open reduction and internal fixation of comminuted patellar fractures with headless compression screws and wiring technique

Background

Management of a displaced comminuted patellar fractures is challenging, and various surgical fixation methods have been suggested. However, issues of loss of reduction and breakage of fixatives have not yet been resolved. In the current study, we describe a new technique for exposure and stabilization of comminuted patellar fractures and evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of this new treatment.

Management of comminuted patellar fracture with non-absorbable suture cerclage and Nitinol patellar concentrator

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a fixation technique for comminuted patellar fracture using non-absorbable suture cerclage and nickel-titanium patellar concentrator (Ni-Ti PC).MethodsTwenty-nine consecutive patients with displaced comminuted patellar fractures accepted internal fixation procedure using Ni-Ti PC augmented with different types of non-absorbable suture cerclage. During follow-up, the clinical grading scales of Böstman, including range of movement, pain, work, atrophy, assistance in walking, effusion, giving way, and stair-climbing, were used to evaluate the clinical results. Complications including implant loosening, fragment displacement, bone nonunion, infection, breakage of the implants, painful hardware, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis were also assessed.ResultsPatients were followed up for a mean period of 27 months. The bone union radiographically occurred approximately 2.5 months without implant loosening and fragment displacement. According to Böstman method, satisfactory results were obtained, and the mean score at final follow-up was 28 (range 20–30) points. Twenty-two patients with excellent results had mean score of 29.8 ± 0.5 (range 28–30) and seven patients with good results had mean score of 22.7 ± 3.14 (range 20–27). No postoperative complications, such as infection, dislocation, breakage of the implants, painful hardware, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, were observed.ConclusionNi-Ti PC fixation with non-absorbable suture cerclage is a feasible approach for comminuted patellar fractures. Firm fixation with this technique resulted in satisfactory outcomes without obvious complications.     

A modified separate vertical fixation by wires and titanium cables for comminuted inferior patella fracture: A technique note and finite element analysis

PurposeComminuted inferior patellar pole fractures are challenging injuries and require adequate treatment due to the extension mechanism of the knee.MethodsA modified separate vertical fixation by wires and Titanium cables was established according to a finite element biomechanical study. Between September 2018 and May 2021, 18 patients with inferior pole fractures of the patella were retrospectively enrolled in this study.ResultsThe results of the finite element analysis showed the concentration of stress in the intermediate vertical wire and the cerclage wire. As a partial replacement for steel wires, Titanium cables provide less concentration of stress on the vertical wire (489.4 MPa vs 441.2 Mpa) and less cutting force on the bone (75.87 Mpa vs 53.27), which reduces the possibility of internal fixation failure and improves the stability of internal fixation. In the clinic study, No patients experienced non-union of the fracture, loss of fracture repositioning, malunion of wounds, or wire breakage. At the last follow-up, the average range of motion was 134.7°±11.2°, and the Lysholm Score was 90.7 ± 3.9.ConclusionsThe separate vertical fixation by wires and titanium cables is an effective fixation method for treating displaced, comminuted inferior pole fractures, which attributes to early exercise and better function.     

Outcome of low profile mesh plate in management of comminuted displaced fracture patella

PurposeTo assess the clinical results of using mesh plate in management of displaced comminuted fracture patella.Patients and methodsBetween January 2014 and October 2015, nine patients with closed displaced comminuted fracture patella were fixed using mesh plate and 2 mm mini screws.ResultsAll fractures united after an average of 10 weeks. At final follow-up of an average 19.6 months, average postoperative Lysholm score was 89.1 ± 4.9, and average Postoperative Böstman scale was 27.2 ± 3.1. No hardware related complications were recorded.ConclusionLow profile mesh plate is a good option in management of comminuted fracture patella with good clinical outcome. This new surgical technique may be particularly useful in comminuted fractures when patellectomy would otherwise be considered.     

Management of displaced inferior patellar pole fractures with modified tension band technique combined with cable cerclage using Cable Grip System

IntroductionWe present a modified tension band technique combined with cable cerclage using Cable Grip System for the treatment of displaced inferior patellar pole fractures and report the knee functional outcome.Patients and methodsThe patients who had had operative treatment of a displaced inferior patellar pole fracture (AO/OTA 34-A1) between December 2013 and December 2015 were studied retrospectively. Eleven consecutive patients had had open reduction and internal fixation with the modified technique using Cable Grip System, of whom, five males and six females with an average age of 60.9 years (range, 29–81 years). All fractures occurred from direct fall onto the knee. The average time from injury to surgery was 6.1 days (range, 2–12 days). The range of motion (ROM) was measured in degrees by goniometry at postoperative intervals of 1, 2, 4, 12, and 48 weeks; Knee function was evaluated using the Rasmussen scores at final follow-up.ResultsNo patients had nonunion, loss of reduction, migration of wire, irritation from the implant and fixation breakage during the follow-up period. Recovery of ROM was achieved at 12 weeks, with the average ROM at 1 week was 72° (range, 65°–78°), 86.4° (range, 78°–92°) at 2 weeks, 115.5° (range, 103°–122°) at 4 weeks, 129.6° (range, 122°–133°) at 12 weeks, 134.5° (range, 129°–139°) at 48 weeks after the operation. Concerning the knee function outcome assessment, all patients showed excellent results at final follow-up. The average Rasmussen scores was 27.9 out of 30 (range, 27–29).ConclusionsThe modified tension band technique combined with cable cerclage using Cable Grip System for displaced inferior patellar pole fractures can provide stable fixation with excellent results in knee function, allows for immediate mobilization and early weight-bearing, which is a simple and valuable technique in routine clinical practice.     

双环10号线环扎并分体式髌骨爪治疗髌骨粉碎骨折

目的:观察双环10号线环扎并分体式髌骨爪治疗髌骨粉碎骨折的临床疗效。方法:自2004年6月至2011年6月,采用双环10号线环扎并分体式髌骨爪治疗髌骨粉碎骨折86例,其中男48例,女38例;年龄19～75岁,平均42.5岁;左侧52例,右侧34例。86例患者均为粉碎性骨折,3个骨折块者25例,4个骨折块者32例,4个以上骨折块者29例。手术时间40～70 min。所有病例术后根据B觟stman等髌骨骨折疗效评价标准进行评分。结果:86例全部得到随访,时间3个月～6年,平均3.5年。B觟stman评分总平均分(27.65±2.05)分,优78例,良8例。结论:双环10号线环扎并分体式髌骨爪治疗髌骨粉碎骨折具有手术简单、复位良好、固定稳定的优点,可早期进行锻炼,关节功能恢复满意。     

The effect of Ding's screws and tension band wiring for treatment of inferior pole patellar fractures

ObjectivesWe developed a cannulated screw with holes in the tail, named the Ding's screw. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of Ding's screw in the treatment of inferior pole patellar fracture.MethodsFrom March 2017 to October 2021, 68 patients with inferior pole patellar fracture in our department were retrospectively reviewed. According to different treatment methods, they were divided into Ding's screw and tension band wiring group (DSTBW) and cannulated screws and tension band wiring group (CSTBW). Radiological and clinical outcomes were evaluated and compared.ResultsThere were 33 cases in DSTBW group and 35 cases in CSTBW group. The mean follow-up duration was 14.5 ± 2.6 months in the DSTBW group and 15.0 ± 2.3 months in the CSTBW group. No significant differences in age, sex, operative side or time to surgery were present between the two groups. Skin breakdown and infection were not significantly different among the groups (P > 0.05). At the last follow-up, the average Bostman score of the DSTBW group was 28.5 ± 1.3(excellent) and that of the CSTBW group was 27.8 ± 1.6(good), with statistical significance (P = 0.045). The average Lysholm score of the DSTBW group was 94.1 ± 3.4 (good), and that of the CSTBW group was 90.1 ± 4.4 (good), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The average knee joint ROM of the DSTBW group was 135.6 ± 6.8˚, and that of the CSTBW group was 130.1 ± 6.7˚, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P = 0.001).ConclusionsDSTBW is an effective method for the treatment of inferior pole patellar fractures with stable fixation and good functional effect.     

Outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy in syndromic adolescents with patellar dislocation

BackgroundTreatment of congenital and habitual dislocation of the patella in syndromic adolescents can be difficult due to accompanying soft-tissue and/or osseous abnormalities often present in the knee. The aim of this study was to report the results of surgical treatment of congenital and habitual patellar dislocation with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) in adolescents with an underlying syndrome.MethodsSyndromic adolescent patients with congenital or habitual patellar dislocation treated with MPFL reconstruction and TTO between 2005 and 2019 with a minimum of one year of follow-up were identified. Demographic, clinical, radiographic, and surgical data were recorded, and any complications were noted. Kujala and Lysholm scores were used to quantitate knee function.ResultsSeventeen knees in 11 patients met the criteria for inclusion. The mean age at operation was 14.8 years (range, 13.3–18.3 years). Patients were identified as having Ehlers-Danlos (four), Down (two), trichorhinophalangeal (one), McCune-Albright (one), Klippel-Feil (one), and generalized joint hypermobility (two) syndromes. The mean follow-up was 2.2 years for each individual knee (range, 1–5.9 years). The mean Kujala score increased from 56 ± 10 preoperatively to 86 ± 6 at the most recent postoperative visit (p < 0.001). The mean Lysholm score increased from 53 ± 10 preoperatively to 85 ± 7 at the most recent postoperative visit (p < 0.001). Knee flexion increased significantly from 117° ± 15° preoperatively to 154° ± 13° postoperatively (p < 0.001). However, knee extension was no different pre- and postoperatively (4° ± 8° vs. 1° ± 4°, respectively, p = 0.2).ConclusionsCongenital and habitual patellar dislocation in adolescent-aged patients with an underlying syndromic diagnosis can be successfully treated with MPFL reconstruction combined with TTO.     

Gait analysis and clinical outcome in patients after pilon fracture surgery

BackgroundIn this study kinematic parameters, radiographic findings and PROM in pilon fractures after operative treatment were compared with healthy subjects.Methods16 patients treated with osteosynthesis after pilon fracture underwent kinematic analysis with the OFM. Fractures were evaluated for post-operative step-off and gap on CT-scans and PROM were collected. Results were compared to 10 healthy persons.ResultsRange of motion (ROM) crural was lower in the flexion/extension for pilon fractures (10.03 vs. 13.15, p = 0.017). The ROM in the inversion/eversion was low, but ROM in the abduction/adduction was higher. Correlations were found between flexion/extension and AO-classification (r = ?0.357 p < 0.05), PROM score of the AOFAS (r = 0.445 p < 0.01), post-operative gap and step-off in the tibia plafond.ConclusionPilon fractures showed decreased ROM between the hindfoot and tibia in the sagittal and transverse plane, but increased ROM in the frontal plane during push-off phase as compensatory kinetics. ROM showed significant correlations with PROM and intra-articular step-off and gap in the tibia plafond.     

髌骨粉碎性骨折3种固定方式比较分析

目的：通过对比髌骨粉碎性骨折不同固定方法的临床疗效,为髌骨粉碎性骨折的治疗提供选择依据。方法：2003年2月至2009年6月采用3种固定方式治疗56例髌骨粉碎性骨折,其中采用克氏针钢丝固定（A组）18例,男9例,女9例;年龄32～52岁,平均（47.62±4.82）岁;丝线环扎配合石膏固定（B组）13例,男3例,女10例;年龄38～65岁,平均（48.58±8.28）岁;记忆合金聚髌器固定（C组）25例,男9例,女16例;年龄32～68岁,平均（48.36±9.59）岁。按改良B觟stman评估标准,对3组的膝关节活动度、疼痛、行走、上楼梯等8个方面进行评分比较。结果：所有病例获随访,时间8～26个月,平均15.6个月,骨折全部愈合。A、B、C组B觟stman评分的总平均分分别为（26.00±4.16）、（22.08±5.31）、（26.44±3.77）分,A、C组评分优于B组。结论：克氏针钢丝或聚髌器固定治疗髌骨粉碎性骨折,固定牢靠,功能恢复佳,疗效满意。     

Management of type IIB and IIIB olecranon fractures. Case series

Objectivesto report and evaluate the functional outcome of plate fixation in comminuted olecranon fractures (Mayo types IIB and IIIB).Method23 consecutive patients with comminuted fractures of the olecranon presenting to our unit Between Feb 2011 and Jan 2015, at a mean follow-up of thirty-six months. Main outcome measurements include radiographic healing, post-operative range of motion, complications, outcome score and patient satisfaction.ResultsOur study included thirteen females and ten males with a mean age of 55(18–97). Fourteen were Mayo type IIB and nine were Mayo type IIIB. Eighteen patients had no complications post-operatively with good outcome with mean oxford score of 45, full rotational ROM and mean flexion arc of 20–130 °. Five patients had range of motion between 40–90 ° with full rotational ROM and mean oxford score of 24. Two patients out of five required metal work removal. No non-unions were noted in our series.ConclusionPlate fixation of complex olecranon fracture is an effective, reliable method of treatment with low risk of non-union. Restoration of a functional flexion arc of movement can be expected with application of correct technique.     

镍钛聚髌器结合钢丝环扎固定治疗粉碎性髌骨骨折

目的：探讨镍钛聚髌器结合钢丝环扎固定治疗髌骨粉碎性骨折的临床疗效。方法：2004年3月至2007年6月,采用镍钛聚髌器结合钢丝环扎固定治疗38例髌骨粉碎性骨折,男25例,女13例;年龄21—64岁,平均42．5岁：均为粉碎有移位骨折,其中碎骨块3块16例、4块14例、5块及以上8例;合并其他部位骨折8例。随访期间评价患者膝关节功能及并发症情况。结果：经8-24个月（平均15个月）随访,骨折均骨性愈合。术后无内固定松动,发生膝关节创伤性滑膜炎2例。按Lysholm—Gillquist膝关节评价标准：优17例,良19例,可2例。结论：镍钛聚髌器结合钢丝环扎固定具有复位满意、固定可靠、患者可早期进行功能锻炼,是治疗髌骨粉碎性骨折的理想选择方式之一。     

Fixed angle plate fixation of comminuted patellar fractures

IntroductionComminuted patella fractures are uncommon and difficult fractures to manage. Multiple treatment modalities have been suggested, with little clinical data to support practice. Recent biomechanical and technical investigations have described successful plate fixation of comminuted patella fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate radiographic, clinical and functional outcome of comminuted patella fractures treated with a fixed angle locking plates. We believe stable fixation, which results in successful fracture union and functional recovery, can be achieved with this technique.Materials and methodsA retrospective review was performed at a single regional academic Level 1 trauma hospital. All comminuted patella fractures treated with a fixed angle locking plate (AO/OTA 34C2 and C3) over a six-year period were evaluated. Thirty-six patients were identified. Average length of follow up was 154 weeks (range 12–297 weeks). Twenty patients were available for functional outcome scoring. Primary outcome measures were: Knee Outcome Score (KOS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LES) and goniometer measured knee range of motion. Secondary outcomes evaluated the need for additional screw or cerclage fixation, reoperation for any reason, bothersome hardware, infection and nonunion.ResultsAverage KOS = 57.2 (20–74), average LES = 58.9 (15–80). Median extension = 0° (full extension), median flexion = 130°. Supplemental screws were used in 17/36 cases; cerclage used in 2/36 cases. Hardware irritation was noted in 4/20 patients, no patient requested elective hardware removal, one patient had failure of fixation and no nonunions were identified.ConclusionFixed angle plate stabilization of comminuted patella fractures is a viable technique for fracture fixation. Good to excellent return of knee function and low complication rates, including need for hardware removal, can be expected.     

Augmentation by cerclage wire improves fixation of vertical shear femoral neck fractures—A biomechanical analysis

BackgroundFemoral neck fractures in young individuals are typically vertical shear fractures. These injuries are difficult to stabilize due to a significant varus displacement force across the hip with weight bearing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical stability offered by the addition of an augmented wire to conventional inverted triangle triple screw fixation for stabilizing vertical shear femoral neck fracture.MethodsSixteen medium 4th-generation synthetic composite femurs (Sawbones Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, WA) were divided into two groups. Vertical osteotomy was performed to mimic Pauwels III femoral neck fracture. Group A (n = 8) was fixed with three parallel 6.5-mm cannulated screws (Stryker) with washer in inverted triangle configuration. In group B (n = 8), all the screws were set using methods identical to group A, with the addition of the cerclage wire. Both groups were tested with nondestructive axial compression test at 7 and 25 ° of valgus stress, respectively. Then axial cyclic loading test with 1000 N was applied for 1000 cycles, and interfragmentary displacement was measured with Fastrak magnetic tracking system (Polhemus, Colchester, VT, USA). Finally, destructive axial compression test was conducted at 7°of valgus stress.ResultsAxial stiffness showed that group B had a 66% increase (879 N/mm vs. 1461 N/mm, P < 0.01) at 7° valgus and a 46% increase (1611 N/mm vs. 2349 N/mm, P < 0.01) at 25° valgus in comparison with group A. Interfragmentary fracture displacement after cyclic loading was significantly less for group B compared with group A (0.34 vs 0.13 mm, P = 0.0016). For axial failure load, there was 42% increase in group B compared with group A (2602 N/mm vs. 3686 N/mm, P = 0.0023).ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that the addition of a cerclage wire to inverted triangle triple screws provides substantial improvement in mechanical performance regarding fixation of vertically oriented femoral neck fractures when compared with the conventional construct. Our study provides support from a mechanical analysis perspective for the reported clinical usefulness of the cerclage wire.     

Hook plating in patella fractures

PurposeTension band wiring is considered the standard treatment for patella fractures. However, it is limited for fractures with marginal involvement, comminution, and osteoporotic bone. Our experience indicates that these limitations can be overcome with the hook plate. We evaluated the radiographic and clinical outcomes in patients with patella fracture treated with hook plating.MethodsWe enrolled 30 patients who underwent hook plating for patella fracture at two institutions between 2013 and 2017. Fracture classification and surgical options were reviewed. Postoperative fracture gap and time to union as radiographic measurements, and complications, range of motion, and functional outcome with the Lysholm score as clinical outcomes, were evaluated retrospectively.ResultsNine fractures were AO/OTA 34A1, three B1, one B2, two C1, nine C2, and six C3. All were closed fractures. There were 3 cases of revision, 4 with lateral or medial marginal fracture, 9 with isolated inferior pole fracture, and 14 with comminuted fracture. The average postoperative fracture gap was 0.4 (range, 0–2.0) mm, and bone union was achieved without additional intervention. The average time to union was 11.6 (range, 7–24) weeks. There were no complications, and no extension lag except in one case (10°). The average flexion was 138.5° (range, 110–145°). For functional outcomes, the average Lysholm score was 89.5 (range, 74–95), with 13 excellent, 14 good, 3 fair, and no poor cases.ConclusionThis study suggests that hook plating can result in good bone union and restored knee function in marginal or comminuted fractures of the patella.     

Tension band fixation for treatment of patellar fracture: Novel technique using a braided polyblend sutures and ring pins

AimTo evaluate a new tension band fixation technique for patellar fracture using braided polyblend sutures (PBSs) and ring pins (RPs).MethodsA total of 13 patients (average: 58.2 years) with transverse or comminuted patellar fractures were treated by this technique. From the 4th week after the surgery, normal activities of daily living were permissible.ResultsBone union was achieved at a mean 3 months from surgery, without any cases of failure, redislocation or postoperative complication. At 12 months after surgery, mean Lysholm score was 93.6, knee motion was extension 0.8° to flexion of 134.6° and visual analogue pain score was 0.5.ConclusionThe new tension band fixation technique using braided polyblend sutures resulted in good outcomes and is considered clinically effective for patellar fracture reduction.     

锁边悬吊联合三道钢丝垂直固定治疗髌骨下极粉碎性骨折

目的:探讨锁边悬吊联合三道钢丝垂直固定技术在髌骨下极粉碎性骨折中的临床应用.方法:自2016年8月至2019年5月,采用锁边悬吊联合三道钢丝垂直固定治疗23例髌骨下极粉碎性骨折患者,其中男14例,女9例;年龄34～68(55.0±1.2)岁.术后1年,采用疼痛视觉模拟评分(visual analogue scale,V...     

Outcome of intramedullary nail for fixation of osteoporotic femoral shaft fractures in the elderly above 60

IntroductionIntramedullary nailing is an acceptable treatment option for femoral shaft fracture in young patients but not extensively studied in the elderly with osteoporotic fractures. Plate fixation for osteoporotic femoral shaft fractures have a high rate of complications and delayed healing time, and the most acceptable treatment is intramedullary nailing. This study evaluated the healing time and incidence of complications in osteoporotic femoral shaft fractures after intramedullary nailing.Patients &MethodsThis was a retrospective study that included 16 patients above 60 years old with osteoporotic femoral shaft fractures operated between January 2015 and December 2018. Patients with metastatic fractures or with atypical fractures were excluded. Thirteen patients had low-energy injuries such as a simple fall from standing height or lower and twisting injuries. The remaining 3 patients sustained high-energy-mechanism of injury. No patient received bisphosphonate except 2 patients received oral bisphosphonate for a period of 6 and 8 months, respectively.ResultsSixteen patients (12 females and 4 males) with mean age 69.5 ± 3.7 presented with femoral shaft fracture were operated with intramedullary nail, 10 patients were fixed with trochanteric entry nails with proximal neck screws, and 6 patients were fixed with piriformis entry nails. In 9 patients, closed reduction of fracture was achieved while 7 patients required open reduction, of which 5 fracture required cerclage wire addition. The mean bone healing time was 5.35±1.2 months. Intraoperative extension of femoral fractures during intramedullary nail insertion was observed in two cases that required open reduction and addition of cerclage wires around the fracture. The overall incidence of complications was 18.7%.ConclusionsIntramedullary nailing for osteoporotic femoral shaft fracture is a good acceptable option in elderly patients with reasonable healing time with no major complications.     

Surgical Outcomes of Articular Surface Crush Injury of Hawkins Ⅲ Talus Neck and Medial Malleolus Fracture

The present study was performed to evaluate the effects of the medial and anterolateral approach combined with internal fixation by double head compression screws and countersunk K-wires for Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck and medial malleolus fracture. Eleven patients with articular surface crush injury resulting in Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck fractures accompanied by medial malleolus fractures were reviewed. All patients underwent emergency operations. The fractures were fixed using double head compression screws and countersunk K-wires through combined medial and anterolateral approaches. FAOS, AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scale, and VAS questionnaire scores were recorded. In addition, ROM of the ankle and postoperative complications were assessed. All patients were followed up for a median of 52.45 ± 5.15 months. The multiple scales data of FAOS on the affected side were: pain score 89.14 ± 7.08; activities of daily living score 89.57 ± 8.88; quality-of-life score 89.20 ± 7.44; sports score 75.00 ± 15.49; and other symptoms score 84.74 ± 7.51. The mean overall AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 88.36 ± 6.39. The VAS score was 0.72 ± 0.65. Ankle motion included dorsiflexion (13.18° ± 9.02°) and plantar flexion (32.27° ± 12.34°). Subtalar joint motion included eversion (10.91° ± 7.01°) and inversion (11.36° ± 7.45°). All scores of the healthy side were higher than those of the affected side (p < .05). In addition to ROM of the ankle and subtalar joint and sports score, various indicators of recovery rate had scores > 80%. One patient developed skin necrosis, which healed after debridement and wound dressing. Late complications included subtalar and/or ankle traumatic arthritis in six patients, four of whom showed no obvious clinical symptoms. In conclusion, the method of emergency surgery and medial and anterolateral approach combined with countersunk K-wires to fix small bone fragments to restore the integrity of the articular surface is acceptable for Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck with medial malleolus fracture.