Fixation of multifragmentary patella fractures using a bilateral fixed-angle plate

Dorsal Hook Plating of Patella Fractures With Immediate Range of Motion Results in Reliable Fixation, Low Implant Removal Rates, and Satisfactory Clinical Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate radiographic and clinical patient-reported outcomes following dorsal hook plating of displaced patella fractures with permittance of immediate postoperative active closed chain range of motion.

METHODS

DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

SETTING

Urban academic level 1 trauma center.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

Adult patients with displaced patella fractures (OTA/AO 34C1-3) who underwent dorsal plating with immediate range of motion between 2018 and 2023.

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

Numerical Rating Scale for Pain, Knee Outcome Score (KOS-ADL), Tegner-Lysholm score, radiographic union, and wound complications were collected.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients were included (47 female) with an average age of 63 years (SD 14.7, range 22-86 years). The mean BMI was 24.2 (SD 3.6, range 16.6-33.3). There were 13 34-C2 and 48 34-C3 fractures. All but 2 patients (96.7%) achieved bony union after the index procedure. 89% (n = 54) of patients completed outcome surveys with at least 6-month follow-up. Six patients (9.8%) underwent removal of plate implant at a mean of 15.1 months postoperatively. The mean KOS-ADL score was 91.4, the mean Tegner-Lysholm score was 78.1, and the mean NRS was 2.7.

CONCLUSIONS

Dorsal hook plating offers secure fixation to allow early range of motion, reliable fixation with low nonunion and implant failure rates, low implant removal rates, and satisfactory patient-reported outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Use of metatarsal hook plates in the treatment of multifragmentary patellar fractures - A case series

The surgical management of patellar fractures typically yielded satisfactory results; however, in situations involving multifragmented patellar fractures or those affecting the inferior pole, it became imperative to employ alternative osteosynthesis techniques that enhanced stability, enabled early rehabilitation initiation, prevented implant failure, and avoided reduction loss before fracture consolidation. In this context, an unconventional osteosynthesis alternative was presented, utilizing an anatomically designed hook plate originally intended for the fifth metatarsal. This technique was successfully applied in three patients with multifragmentary patellar fractures, allowing stable fixation of small or marginal fragments through the plate's hooks without compromising vascularity. Fracture consolidation was achieved without reduction loss, and owing to its low profile, patient discomfort and irritation were minimized compared to traditional tension band or wiring techniques. This approach suggested the potential to forego early plate removal, thereby contributing to a more effective management of patellar fractures.

Level of evidence

IV.

Transosseous suture versus suture anchor fixation for inferior pole fractures of the patella in osteoporotic bone: a biomechanical study

BACKGROUND

The surgical treatment of inferior patellar pole fractures can be a challenge, especially in geriatric patients, who are particularly frequently affected by osteoporosis. The objective of this biomechanical study was to compare the performance of suture anchor and transosseous suture fixation in fractures of the inferior patellar pole in context of bone mineral density.

METHODS

Twelve fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees received a transverse osteotomy, simulating an AO/OTA 34C1.3 inferior pole fracture of the patella. These fractures were fixated with either suture anchors (SA; Corkscrew^® FT 4.5 mm) or transosseous suture (TS; #2 FiberWire^®). Cyclic loading tests were performed by pulling the quadriceps tendon against gravity from 90° flexion to almost full extension (5°) for 1000 cycles. Motion and fracture gap displacement were tracked until failure occurred. Subsequently, loading to failure tests followed. Differences between groups were compared using unpaired t-tests, and correlations were calculated with Pearson's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The suture anchor group showed significantly fewer cycles to failure than the transosseous suture group (SA: 539.0 ± 465.6 cycles, TS: 1000 ± 0 cycles, P = 0.04). Bone mineral density correlated positively with cycles to failure in the suture anchor group (Pearson's r = 0.60, P = 0.02). No differences in fracture gap displacement could be proven after 100 cycles (SA: 4.1 ± 2.6 mm, TS: 6.5 ± 2.6 mm, P = 0.19); 500 cycles (SA: 6.4 ± 6.1 mm, TS: 9.6 ± 3.8 mm, P = 0.39); and 1000 cycles (SA: 4.0 ± 0.4 mm, TS: 11.0 ± 4.5 mm, P = 0.08). Furthermore, the mean destructive load to failure in the suture anchor group was also significantly lower than in the transosseous suture group (SA: 422.4 ± 212.2 N, TS: 825.7 ± 189.3 N, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Suture anchors may be a viable alternative to transosseous suture in younger patients for clinical advantages, but in osteoporotic bone, the more stable osteosynthesis with transosseous suture continues to prove superior. Therefore, trauma surgeons might consider the use of transosseous suture in elderly patients, especially in those presenting with low bone mineral density values.

Does pin configuration matter in modified tension band wiring for transverse patellar fracture? A biomechanical study

BACKGROUND

Modified tension band wiring has been widely used for the treatment of transverse patellar fractures. The optimal position of a Kirschner wire (K-wire) in modified tension band wiring, however, has not yet been determined. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate biomechanically the effect of K-wire position in a modified tension band wiring technique.

METHODS

Forty-two polyurethane foam patellae with a midway transverse fracture were assigned to six different fixation groups regarding different pin configurations in tension band wiring. The depth or sagittal position of the K-wire was divided into anterior and posterior. The coronal position of the K-wire was divided into central, medial and lateral. A specially designed set up simulated a knee with 60° flexion. All specimens were tested under axial traction. Loads at 2 mm and 4 mm fracture displacement and at the failure of the construct were recorded.

RESULTS

At 2 mm fracture displacement, anterolateral (AL) placement of K-wires revealed significantly less durability when compared with five other groups (P < 0.001). At 4 mm fracture displacement, the AL group also revealed inferior biomechanical strength when compared with other groups. Posteromedial (PM) K-wire placement group revealed more durability when compared with the posterolateral (PL) group (P < 0.05). At failure of the osteosynthesis, anteromedial (AM) and anterocentral (AC) groups revealed superior biomechanical strengths (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The coronal and sagittal position of K-wire affects the biomechanical characteristics of modified tension band wiring. Anterolateral placement of K-wires revealed inferior strength to all other constructs in modified anterior tension band wiring.

Anterior Locking Plate Osteosynthesis of Patellar Factures - Analysis of Complications and Functional Outcome

BACKGROUND

Tension band wiring is the standard procedure for patellar fractures, but is associated with a high rate of implant related complications and implant failure. Tension band wiring may fail, especially with multifragmentary and comminuted fractures. Plate fixation of complex patellar fractures seems to be superior to wiring, both clinically and biomechanically. The aim of this study was to evaluate complications after locking plate fixation in patellar fractures two years after surgery and to access the functional outcome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

As part of a prospective case series, all patients who had received locking plate fixation of a patellar fracture between April 2013 and May 2018 were clinically examined two years postoperatively and potential complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 38 patients aged 19 - 87 years were included. Complications occurred in a total of five patients (13%), including one reactive prepatellar bursitis, one chronic infection and loss of reduction due to a dislocated pole fragment in three cases. The average active range of motion of the affected knee joint two years postoperatively was 133°. The Tegner activity scale score reached 3 points, the Lysholm score 95 points and the Kujala score 95 points.

CONCLUSION

With an overall relatively low complication rate and good clinical outcome, dislocated distal pole fragments are a common complication after plate fixation of patellar fractures. If preoperative diagnostic testing shows a pole fragment, a modified hook-plate can be used, with the possibility of fixing the pole fragment.

A New Antirotation Strategy of K-Wire Tension Band Therapy for Patellar Fracture

Background

Patellar fracture is a common phenomenon observed in orthopedic clinics. Many methods have been shown to be effective in the fixation of patellar fracture. However, there are few studies on the antirotation effect of these methods. The purpose of this study is to present a new strategy of K-wire tension band therapy for patellar fracture and explore the antirotation effect of the modified tension band method on patellar fracture.

Methods

A retrospective clinical observation study was conducted on 75 patients with patellar fracture. Totally, 46 patients were enrolled to the traditional group, who received the traditional K-wire tension band therapy. The modified group included 29 patients on whom our new strategy was implemented. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and fracture healing time were collected to compare the two operations and the knee society score (KSS) scores after the operations, and complications were recorded and retrieved to indicate the effectiveness of the two treatments.

Results

The preoperative baseline data (gender, age, fracture types) of the two groups showed no significant statistical difference. Similarly, there was no significant difference in the operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and fracture healing time between the two groups. The KSS clinical scores 1 year after operation was 90 (84, 95) for the traditional group as compared with 99 (97, 100) for the modified group (p < 0.05). The KSS functional scores 1 year after operation in the two groups were 90 (65, 90) and 100 (90, 100) (p < 0.05). The incidences of complications due to the rotation of K-wires in the traditional group and the modified group were 76.1% (35 of 46) and 6.9% (2 of 29) with a significant statistical difference (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study shows that our modified tension band therapy is an effective strategy for antirotation in the treatment of patellar fracture and proves that it can achieve better clinical outcomes than the traditional K-wire tension band method. This new strategy may be a safe and effective clinical technique for the treatment of patellar fracture. However, more prospective randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are still needed to further prove its efficacy.

Prospective Comparative Study of Fixing Displaced Transverse Patellar Fracture by Tension Band Wiring Versus Cannulated Screws with Wiring

BACKGROUND: Transverse fractures of the patella are important fractures with a wide variety of subtypes, the common incidence in the age group of 20–50 years. Surgical interference aims to achieve a perfect alignment of the joint surface, in addition to rigid fixation of the fracture for early re-habitation and early movement to retain the extensor mechanism of the knee joint. AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the radiological and functional outcomes of the displaced transverse patella fracture in adult patients treated by ORIF using tension band wiring versus cannulated screws with wiring. METHODS: A prospective analytic comparative study was conducted in Al-Kindy Teaching Hospital/Baghdad/Iraq for 18 months from April 1, 2019, to October 1, 2020. It included 32 patients with isolated displaced transverse patellar fracture AO type 34-C1. The patients have undergone operative fixation with two different surgical techniques divided randomly by choosing every other patient into two groups. Group A, the fracture was fixed by cannulated screws with wiring and Group B, the fracture was fixed by two K-wires and with tension band technique. Postoperatively, assessment of the knee function by Lysholm score, the visual analog scale for pain intensity, and active flexion range of movement were measured in degree as primary outcomes, while time to union in weeks assessed radiographically as secondary outcomes. RESULTS: The patients’ age was ranging from 26 to 49 years, with males predominant. Low-energy falls occupying a major part of the mechanism of injury in both groups. Lysholm score was significantly increased after 3, 6, and 12 months compared to that after 1 month in both groups with no statistical differences. The mean visual analog score significantly decreased in Group A after 1 month than that in Group B with no significant change in the other follow-up periods. There were no statistically significant differences in both groups regarding the range of knee movement and the radiographic assessment of fracture healing. CONCLUSION: Both techniques are good and effective with taking into consideration that open reduction and cannulated screws fixation with wiring technique is shown to be associated with lower post-operative pain and a lower frequency of complications mainly surgical site infection.

Suturing methods in prolapse surgery: a biomechanical analysis

INTRODUCTION

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common problem in urogynecological surgery. Abdominal and laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is currently considered to be the gold standard of treatment. The main problem remains the anatomical point of fixation as well as how sutures are placed. We evaluated the biomechanical difference between an in-line ligament suture versus an orthogonal ligament suture and a single suture versus a continuous suture at the anterior longitudinal ligament in an in-vitro, sacrocolpopexy model.

METHODS

Biomechanical in-vitro testing was performed on human, non-embalmed, female cadaver pelvises. An Instron test frame (tensinometer) was used for load/ displacement analysis. The average patient age was 75 years. Ligament preparation yielded 15 ligaments available for testing. Recorded parameters were the ultimate load, failure displacement, and stiffness.

RESULTS

This in-vitro analysis of different suturing methods showed the difference between an orthogonal and an in-line approach to be the ultimate load. Orthogonal sutures displayed an ultimate load of 80 N while in-line suturing yielded only 57 N (p < 0.05). For the anterior longitudinal ligament, this study demonstrated that continuous suture is significantly superior to a single suture regarding failure displacement (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We established baseline biomechanical parameters for the sacrospinous ligament and anterior longitudinal ligament. An orthogonal suture is superior to an in-line suture in an in-vitro model. A continuous suture is superior to a single suture at the anterior longitudinal ligament. Clinical trials might be able to evaluate whether any clinical significance can be established from these findings.

Comparison between tension band and cerclage with X-Plate and lag screws in treatment of comminuted patellar fractures

BACKGROUND

Comminuted patellar fractures are not rare, and the ideal treatment method remains controversial. The present study was conducted to evaluate effects and compare complications of two different methods used to treat comminuted patellar fractures.

METHODS

From March 2010 to August 2016, 102 cases of 34-C2 or 34-C3 comminuted patellar fractures were treated at our hospital, wherein patients received two different treatments: titanium cable tension band with cerclage method (group A) and intrafragmentary screws with X-shaped plating technique (group B). At follow-ups, articular step-off, range of motion (ROM), Lysholm scores, time of union, and complications were recorded and analyzed. Radiographic and clinical data as well as rate of complications were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 87 patients were included in the final analysis (n = 47 in group A and n = 40 in group B). No significant differences were noted in terms of cost of implant, age, gender, rate of 34-C3 fractures, rate of layered inferior pole fractures, postoperative articular step-off and union time. At 2-year follow-up, average Lysholm scores, ROM and rate of complications were (89.0 ± 4.5), (122°±12°) and (27.7%) in group A and (90.2 ± 3.9), (124°±11°) and (17.5%) in group B, respectively, with no significant differences (p > 0.05). The mean time of surgery in group B was shorter than that in group A with significant difference (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment using the intrafragmentary screws and plate method for amenable comminuted patellar fractures achieved similar complication rate and favorable functional outcomes at the 2-year follow-up, which was comparable to the titanium cable tension band with cerclage method. Thus, the intrafragmentary screws and plate method is effective, safe and convenient for 34-C2/C3 comminuted patellar fractures, especially appropriate for patients with layered fragments.

Patellar Fracture After ACL Reconstruction: Open Reduction and Internal Fixation with a Maxillofacial Plate: A Case Report

CASE

Patellar fractures after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with a bone-patellar-tendon-bone (BPTB) autograft are a rare complication with a reported incidence of 0.2% to 2.3%. Treatment has previously been nonoperative splinting, lag screws, or a tension-band construct. We present the case of a 14-year-old adolescent girl who suffered a comminuted patella fracture 4 weeks after an ACL reconstruction using a BPTB autograft who subsequently underwent successful operative fixation through a novel technique with the use of a maxillofacial plate and screw system.

CONCLUSION

A maxillofacial plate and screw system is an effective and reliable treatment option for patellar fractures sustained after ACL reconstruction with a BPTB autograft.

Biomechanical comparison of a 3.5 mm anterior locking plate to cannulated screws with anterior tension band wiring in comminuted patellar fractures

PURPOSE

To date, surgically treated multifragmentary patellar fractures are still associated with high rates of complications, such as i.e. secondary fracture displacement. Osteosynthesis is most frequently performed with screws and cerclages. To increase primary stability, locking plates have been introduced. However, there is still a lack of biomechanical data supporting the superiority of plate fixation compared to screw fixation with cerclages in these cases. The goal of the present study was to conduct biomechanical comparison of these two techniques under dynamic loading conditions.

METHODS

A standardized 34-C3 fracture was created in eight pairs of human cadaveric knee joints. Following a randomization protocol, they were fixed with a 3.5 mm anterior locking plate (LP) or cannulated screws with anterior tension band wiring (hybrid osteosynthesis, HO).Subsequently, all constructs were tested for 100 cycles from 90° of knee-flexion to full extension by applying a pulling force to the quadriceps tendon. Outcome parameters were fracture displacement after one cycle, after 100 cycles and implant loosening. Failure was defined as fracture displacement > 2 mm.

RESULTS

Biomechanical testing showed significantly less fracture displacement following LP compared to HO both after the first (p = 0.042) and after 100 cycles (p = 0.025). The difference in loosening was significant as well (p = 0.017). Following HO, 5/8 constructs failed during cyclic loading. There was no failure in the LP group. In the HO group, loosening correlated with bone mineral density (R = - 0.857) which was not observed in the LP group (R = - 0.429).

CONCLUSION

Anterior locking plate osteosynthesis of comminuted patellar fractures biomechanically provides better primary stability compared to cannulated screws with anterior tension band wiring.

Fracture Patterns and Comminution Zones in OTA/AO 34C Type Patellar Fractures

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the fracture patterns and comminution zones for complete articular (OTA/AO 34C type) patellar fractures, using a computed tomography mapping technique.

METHODS

Eighty-three OTA/AO 34C type patellar fractures were included. Images of patellar fractures were superimposed on a coronal template of the patella, created from a healthy right knee, to identify fracture patterns and comminution zones.

RESULTS

Our analysis was based on 83 computed tomography images of patellar fractures, contributed by 69 male and 14 female patients (mean age, 52 years; range, 18-79 years), and included 13 type C1, 26 type C2 and 44 type C3 fractures. A transverse fracture, including both the medial and lateral facets, was the most common fracture pattern, identified in 92.8% of cases. In the C1 and C2 types, the fracture line affecting the medial and lateral joint surface was either transverse or oblique. In the C3 type, the transverse and vertical fracture line of the medial articular surface extended to the inferior pole of the patella, with transverse and oblique fractures lines on the lateral joint surface. In addition, a concentration of the fracture lines around the vertical ridge was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The patterns of fracture lines and comminution zones OTA/AO 34C type fractures were repeatable on the constructed maps. A transverse fracture line on the inferior pole which was observed in the C2 and C3 type fractures may be used for the modification of current classification systems to direct treatment.

Outcomes after locked plating of displaced patella fractures: a prospective case series

PURPOSE

Tension band wiring remains a common treatment for patella fractures, but complication rates are high, with unsatisfactory results. The purpose of this observation study was to evaluate clinical results and complication rates of a novel patella locking plate fixation.

METHODS

Twenty patients (mean age, 59.2 ± 18 years) with displaced patella fractures were prospectively enrolled. Range of motion, knee scores (Tegner, Lysholm, Kujala), complications, and revision surgeries were assessed six weeks, six months, 12 months, and 24 months after surgery. Results were compared to the situation before trauma in regards to the time of follow-up using a paired sample t test.

RESULTS

According to the OTA classification, the fractures were classified as follows: one A1, four C1, six C2, and nine C3. Range of motion improved from 121° after six weeks to 140°, 141°, and 143° within the follow-up period. While the Tegner, Lysholm, and Kujala scores were 4.1/97/97, respectively, before trauma, they improved from 2.6/80/89 to 3.6/94/89, 3.7/95/94, and 4.1/97/97 within the follow-up period. Three patients had a complication (15%): one fracture dislocation, one reactive bursitis, and one renewed fracture. Four patients reported discomfort or anterior knee pain especially when kneeling on the implant.

CONCLUSIONS

The patella locking plate is a safe and effective treatment for patella fractures, including comminuted fractures. Function can be restored within six months after surgery, and the complication rate is low. Nonetheless, the implant can cause discomfort or anterior knee pain especially when kneeling, which can necessitate an implant removal.

Laparoscopic pectopexy: a follow-up cyclic biomechanical analysis determining time to functional stability

INTRODUCTION

Pectopexy, a laparoscopic method for prolapse surgery, showed promising results in previous transient testing by this group. It was shown that a single suture, yielding an ultimate load of 35 N, was equivalent to continuous suturing. This was demonstrated in an in vitro cadaver study. This transient data were used to establish an elastic stress-strain envelope. It was now possible to proceed to dynamic in vitro analysis of this surgical method to establish time to functional stability.

METHODS

Cyclic testing of this fixation method was performed on human female embalmed cadaver (cohort 1) and fresh, non-embalmed cadaver (cohort 2) pelvises. The testing envelope was 5-25 N at a speed of 1 mm/s. 100 load regulated cycles were applied.

RESULTS

100 cycles were completed with each model; no overall system failure occurred. Steady state, i.e., functional stability was reached after 14.5 (± 2.9) cycles for the embalmed group and after 19.1 (± 7.2) cycles for the non-embalmed group. This difference was statistically significant p = 0.00025.

CONCLUSION

This trial showed in an in vitro cyclic testing of the pectopexy method that functional stability may be achieved after no more than 19.1 cycles of load exposure. When remaining within the established load envelope of below 25 N, patients do not need to fear global fixation failure. Testing did demonstrate differences in non-embalmed and embalmed cadaver testing. Embalmed cadaver testing tends to underestimate time to steady state by 26.3%.

[Plate osteosynthesis after patellar fracture - the technique and initial results of a prospective study]

BACKGROUND

Tension band wiring after patellar fractures is related to a high number of implant-related complications (22-53 %). Revision surgery is necessary in 10-55 % of patients mostly with unsatisfactory results. The patella plate is an alternative treatment with the advantages of locked plating. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the first clinical prospective results and complications of this new implant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between April 2013 and May 2015 all patients that were treated with locked plating for patella fractures were included in this prospective study. Patients were followed-up clinically after six weeks and six months.

RESULTS

Included in this study were 17 patients, 6 women and 11 men, with a mean age of 58 years (19-87). The knee range of motion was 120° after 6 weeks and improved to 138° after 6 months, corresponding to 84 % and 97 % of the range of motion of the healthy opposite knee. The Tegner activity scale increased from 2,5 to 3,5 (initial value: 4), the Lysholm score increased from 78 to 92 points (initial value: 97) and the Kujala score increased from 72 to 88 points (initial value: 96). Two complications occurred: one patient had a reactive bursitis prepatellaris and one patient sustained a loss of reduction.

CONCLUSION

Locked plating of patella fractures is a reliable alternative treatment with good functional outcomes and low complication rates.

Treatment of Patella Fractures

Patella fractures comprise 1% of all fractures. Treatment options vary based on fracture displacement, classification, and patient factors. Traditionally, nonoperative treatment has been reserved for nondisplaced fractures. Many operative treatments are available with differing indications and levels of success. Tension band constructs have been the most commonly employed approach to fixation, with cerclage wiring for comminuted fractures. Recently, plate fixation of patella fractures has become more popular. Plating constructs offer a low-profile design with stable fixation, allowing for earlier mobilization and potentially improved functional outcomes. Data regarding the long-term outcomes of plating techniques are limited, and further studies are needed. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(6):e747-e755.].

A Biomechanical Study of an Alternative Internal Fixation Method for Transverse Patella Fractures

Pain and reoperation after fixation using tension band wiring and K-wires is not uncommon. A novel hook plate was designed to improve the treatment of patella fractures. The aim of this study was to compare the stability of the hook plate with that of tension band wiring and K-wires in a simulated patellar transverse fracture model (AO/OTA classification 34-C1.1). The authors tested 16 embalmed cadaver knee joints fixed with the hook plate and tension band wiring and K-wires under cyclic loading. Specimens underwent 100 cycles extending the knee joint from 90° of flexion to full extension at a velocity of 50 mm/min. The fracture gap was measured after the initial and last cycles. Data were assessed statistically using the t test, with significance set as P<.05. The fatigue test showed that the fracture gap after 100 cycles was 2.97±1.39 mm using tension band wiring and K-wires and 1.53±0.93 mm for the hook plate (P=.029). Six of 8 specimens in the tension band wiring and K-wires group met the failure criterion of fracture gap greater than 2 mm vs 1 in the hook plate group (P=.041). From a biomechanical point of view, the hook plate is a valid alternative to tension band wiring and K-wires for fixing patella transverse fractures. Compared with tension band wiring and K-wires, the hook plate may have superior ability in sustaining a reduced transverse patella fracture. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(5):e643-e648.].

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

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.

[Biomechanics test of fixation of star-shaped six-part patellar fractures with petal-shaped poly-axial locking plate]

Objective

To compare the biomechanical difference between petal-shaped poly-axial locking plate and tension band wire cerclage in fixing star-shaped 6-part patellar fractures in cadaver model, and provide the experimental data for clinical use.

Methods

The paired 12 knee specimens from 6 human cadavers were randomly divided into 2 groups (the control group and the test group) after a star-shaped 6-part patellar fracture model was established. The specimens were weighted, and the control group was fixed with tension band wire cerclage and the test group was fixed with petal-shaped poly-axial locking plate. The specimens were connected to CMT5105 biomechanics test machine by a customized fixture, the total fracture gap of patellar fracture blocks was measured before testing. The knee extensor load test was performed to record the extensor load of knees at 90° flexion to extension. Then the anti gravity physiological knee extension process at 90° flexion was stimulated according to the knee extensor load. The cyclic times until failure and the total fracture gap of patellar fracture blocks after failure were recorded.

Results

The specimens weight and the total fracture gap of patellar fracture blocks before testing between 2 groups had no significant difference ( t=0.410, P=0.690; t=0.650, P=0.530). In the biomechanical test, there was no significant difference of knee extension load between 2 groups ( t=0.490, P=0.638). The total fracture gap after failure in test group was significantly smaller than that in control group ( t=3.026, P=0.013), and the cyclic times until failure in test group was significantly more than that in control group ( t=2.277, P=0.046). The failure reasons in control group were all the wires slipped off the Kirschner wires, while the failure reasons in test group were the screws pulled out from the upper pole in 5 cases (83.3%) and from the lower pole in 1 case (16.7%).

Conclusion

The petal-shaped poly-axial locking plate has better biomechanical stiffness to fix the star-shaped 6-part patellar fractures when compared with tension band wire cerclage method. However, this type of fracture is a serious comminuted type, and the early excessive activity still carries the risk of displacement.

Functional outcome and economic burden of operative management of patellar fractures: the pivotal role of onerous implants

OBJECTIVES

The complication rate following operative treatment of patellar fractures remains high and is associated with a poor functional outcome. The primary goal of this study was to evaluate our functional outcome of patellar fracture osteosynthesis and define strategies to improve the outcome. The healthcare costs and utilization were calculated.

METHODS

All demographic, clinical, radiographic variables and hospital-related costs of 111 patients with 113 surgically treated patellar fractures between January 2005 and December 2014 were analyzed. Fractures were grouped as either simple or complex. Functional outcome was assessed using Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS).

RESULTS

There were 67 simple fractures (59.3%) and 46 complex fractures (40.7%). The overall complication rate was 48.7%, including 19.5% implant-related complications. In 69 patients (61.1%), implants were removed. The outcome was rather poor, with considerable impairment in all KOOS subscales with the knee-related quality of life rated worst (median 62.5, IQR 37.5-81.25). Poor outcome correlated significantly with complex patellar fractures and extensive tension-band constructs.

CONCLUSIONS

The operative treatment of patellar fractures was associated with a high complication rate, functional impairment and reduced quality of life. Complex patellar fractures and extensive tension-band constructs were identified as the main determinants of poor outcome and increased economic burden due to higher reinterventions rates. Strategies to reduce complications and improve outcome should focus on less onerous implants.

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

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical results of using mesh plate in management of displaced comminuted fracture patella.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2014 and October 2015, nine patients with closed displaced comminuted fracture patella were fixed using mesh plate and 2mm mini screws.

RESULTS

All 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.

CONCLUSION

Low 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.

Superior Outcomes After Operative Fixation of Patella Fractures Using a Novel Plating Technique: A Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to determine if a new patella fracture fixation construct resulted in improved outcomes compared with traditional tension band techniques.

DESIGN

Comparative cohort study.

SETTING

Academic level I trauma center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Patients with isolated, unilateral patellar fractures were enrolled prospectively. From 2012 to 2014, 33 patients underwent fixation with a novel plate construct that spans half of the patella circumference laterally and provides multiplanar fixation through a low-profile plate. A comparison cohort was drawn from 25 patients treated from 2008 to 2012, where treatment consisted of traditional tension band fixation techniques.

INTERVENTION

Surgical fixation of patella fractures was performed with either a tension band or novel plate construct.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Subjective postoperative clinical outcomes and objective functional and strength measurements were subsequently collected.

RESULTS

The 2 cohorts had similar baseline characteristics. Patients with the plate construct had clinically and statistically significantly superior Knee Outcome Survey Activities of Daily Living Scale (KOS-ADLS) scores throughout the study period (P < 0.001). Functional testing also demonstrated significant improvements in patients with plate constructs compared with tension band constructs at 12 months. Patients in the plate cohort had significantly increased thigh circumferences (P = 0.003) and decreased anterior knee pain (P < 0.0001) compared with the tension band cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In this prospective cohort study, the use of a novel fixation construct with multiplanar and interfragmentary fixation and minimal disruption of patellar vascularity enables improved clinical outcomes and functional performance.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Inframammary Fold Reconstruction: A Biomechanical Analysis

Background:

Inframammary fold reconstruction has scarcely been evaluated in literature. No biomechanical analyses have been performed comparing different reconstructive methods. This evaluation compares the gold-standard suture reconstruction with an intrarib anchor system (Micro BioComposite SutureTak, Arthrex).

Methods:

Three analysis groups were compared including 8 Sawbone blocks, 22 embalmed cadaver, and 27 regular cadaver specimens (N = 57). Transient mechanical analysis was performed at 5 N/s using an Instron 5565 test frame.

Results:

Ultimate load favored the anchor system (compared with the gold-standard suture) by a factor of 9.8 (P < 0.0001) for the regular cadaver group and a factor of 1.7 (P < 0.038) for the embalmed cadaver group. A similar statistically significant benefit was shown for stiffness and load at 2-mm displacement.

Conclusions:

This analysis showed an anchor system to be the biomechanically superior fixation method in terms of ultimate load, fixation stiffness, and displacement at failure when compared with the gold-standard suture method in inframammary fold reconstruction. Because of superior stability in every aspect, an anchor system may be considered for inframammary fold reconstruction.

Laparoscopic Pectopexy: A Biomechanical Analysis

Introduction

Pectopexy, a laparoscopic method for prolapse surgery, showed promising results in recent literature. Further improving this approach by reducing surgical time may decrease complication rates and patient morbidity. Since laparoscopic suturing is a time consuming task, we propose a single suture /mesh ileo-pectineal ligament fixation as opposed to the commonly used continues approach.

Methods

Evaluation was performed on human non-embalmed, fresh cadaver pelves. A total of 33 trials was performed. Eight female pelves with an average age of 75, were used. This resulted in 16 available ligaments. Recorded parameters were ultimate load, displacement at failure and stiffness.

Results

The ultimate load for the mesh + simplified single “interrupted” suture (MIS) group was 35 (± 12) N and 48 (± 7) N for the mesh + continuous suture (MCS) group. There was no significant difference in the ultimate load between both groups (p> 0.05). This was also true for displacement at failure measured at 37 (± 12) mm and 36 (±5) mm respectively. There was also no significant difference in stiffness and failure modes.

Conclusion

Given the data above we must conclude that a continuous suture is not necessary in laparoscopic mesh / ileo-pectineal ligament fixation during pectopexy. Ultimate load and displacement at failure results clearly indicate that a single suture is not inferior to a continuous approach. The use of two single sutures may improve ligamental fixation. However, overall stability should not benefit since the surgical mesh remains the limiting factor.

Multiplanar Fixation for Patella Fractures Using a Low-Profile Mesh Plate

Patella fractures are challenging orthopaedic injuries. Many commonly used fixation techniques can be ineffective and lead to poor clinical outcomes even with satisfactory reductions and fracture healing. In this investigation, we present the technique of cage plate fixation of patella fractures and the clinical outcomes of 9 initial patients surgically treated at our institution. This technique allows direct visualization of the articular reduction, provides multiplanar fixation, effectively stabilizes inferior pole comminution, and reduces the risk of patella vascular disruption. Using this technique, we have achieved excellent functional and radiographic outcomes.