Part II: arthroscopic treatment of tibial plateau fractures: intercondylar eminence avulsion fractures

Treatment of avulsion fractures of the intercondylar eminence by medial parapatellar approach, open reduction and cross wire fixation

Avulsion fractures of the intercondylar eminence in children and adolescents are relatively uncommon and can lead to significant disability with improper union. Many operative techniques have been developed to fixate these fractures, most of them utilizing sophisticated fixation modes. In this study, a small medial parapatellar approach was used with open reduction and percutaneous cross Kirschner wire fixation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this method. From 2007 to 2012, eight children were treated, mean age 11.8 years (range 10-14 years). All underwent open reduction by a medial parapatellar incision and fixation by two cross Kirschner wires introduced in an oblique crossed manner from the medial and lateral aspects of the proximal tibia. Fractures were classified as Meyers and McKeever type III and were not candidates for conservative treatment. All operated limbs were immobilized postoperatively in a circular cast in extension for 6 weeks and allowed partial weight bearing from day 1 after the procedure. Outcomes were evaluated clinically and through radiographs taken during follow-up. All fractures were successfully reduced and healed, with no occurrences of malunion or nonunion. At follow-up, all patients had full knee range of motion, there was no gross laxity of the knee compared with the contralateral knee, and good functional outcome was achieved. On the basis of our experience, we believe that the procedure that we used is a simple, low-tech, and minimally invasive technique for the treatment of these fractures, with good functional outcome.

Incarceration of the intermeniscal ligament in tibial eminence injury: a block to closed reduction identified using MRI

Tibial eminence fractures are a relatively uncommon injury, but most frequently occur in children and adolescents with open physes. Entrapment of the intermeniscal ligament or the meniscus itself can occur in the setting of a tibial eminence fracture and when present, poses a significant obstacle to successful closed or surgical reduction. Identification of these entrapped structures on preoperative imaging may be helpful to the physicians caring for these patients and assist with preoperative planning. We present a case of a 13-year-old male who sustained a tibial eminence fracture while playing football. Review by the orthopedic surgeon identified entrapment of the intermeniscal ligament. Subsequently, a closed reduction attempt under anesthesia prior to surgery was unsuccessful and arthroscopy was needed to remove the entrapped intermeniscal ligament and reduce the tibial eminence fracture. Pre-operative knowledge of entrapped soft tissue structures under the fracture plane, particularly the meniscus and intermeniscal ligament, provides the surgeon with valuable insight as to how to best counsel patients on the success of treatment options, how to best prepare for operative treatment, and can guide the surgeon during open reduction to maximize treatment success.

Incidence of meniscal injury and chondral pathology in anterior tibial spine fractures of children

BACKGROUND

Pediatric avulsion fractures of the anterior tibial spine are injuries similar to anterior cruciate ligament injuries in adults. Sparse data exists on the association between anterior tibial spine fractures (ATSFs) and injury to the meniscus or cartilage of the knee joint in children. This research presents a retrospective review of clinical records, imaging, and operative reports to characterize the incidence of concomitant injury in cases of ATSFs in children. The purpose of this study was to better delineate the incidence of associated injuries in fractures of the anterior tibial spine in the pediatric population.

METHODS

We identified 58 patients who sustained an ATSF and met inclusion criteria for this study between 1996 and 2011. The subjects were separated by the Myers and McKeever classification into type I, II, and III fractures, and each of these were subclassified by associated injury pattern.

RESULTS

59% of children with an ATSF had an associated soft tissue or other bony injury diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging or arthroscopy. The most prevalent associated injuries were meniscal entrapment, meniscal tears, and chondral injury. We found no meniscal or chondral injury associated with type I fractures. Twenty-nine percent of type II injuries demonstrated meniscal entrapment, 33% showing meniscal tears. Seven percent demonstrated chondral injury. Forty-eight percent of type III fractures had entrapment, whereas 12% showed meniscal tears. Eight percent had a chondral injury.

CONCLUSIONS

A majority (59%) of displaced ATSF had either concomitant meniscal, ligamentous, or chondral injury. This finding suggests that magnetic resonance imaging evaluation is an important aspect of the evaluation of these injuries, particularly in type II and type III patterns. To date, this study reports the largest number of patients to evaluate the specific question of concomitant injuries in ATSFs in the pediatric population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

The tibial eminence fracture in skeletally immature patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although tibial eminence fractures are uncommon, their importance cannot be overemphasized in skeletally immature patients because of the fracture's close proximity to both the tibial physis as well as the attachment between the tibial eminence and the anterior cruciate ligament, the latter being a key component in maintaining knee stability. This review focuses on recent trends in treatment concepts and devices.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent literature on this topic addresses the existence of a variety of treatment modalities, but the majority of these articles analyzed a limited number of cases and insisted on the merits of their own methods. Nevertheless, some consensus has been reached regarding treatment direction and how much laxity should be considered acceptable.

SUMMARY

Although the review failed to reveal a gold standard modality in treating tibial eminence fractures, most studies agreed on several issues. Displaced intra-articular fractures should be fixed operatively.

Arthroscopic 4-point suture fixation of anterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fractures

Tibial eminence avulsion fractures are rare injuries occurring mainly in adolescents and young adults. When necessary, regardless of patient age, anatomic reduction and stable internal fixation are mandatory for fracture healing and accurate restoration of normal knee biomechanics. Various arthroscopically assisted fixation methods with sutures, anchors, wires, or screws have been described but can be technically demanding, thus elongating operative times. The purpose of this article is to present a technical variation of arthroscopic suture fixation of anterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures. Using thoracic drain needles over 2.4-mm anterior cruciate ligament tibial guidewires, we recommend the safe and easy creation of four 2.9-mm tibial tunnels at different angles and at specific points. This technique uses thoracic drain needles as suture passage cannulas and offers 4-point fixation stability, avoiding potential complications of bony bridge fracture and tunnel connection.

Neglected ununited tibial eminence fractures in the skeletally immature: arthroscopic management

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate outcomes of arthroscopic management of neglected ununited tibial eminence fractures in skeletally immature patients.

METHODS

The study was conducted and cases performed by two surgeons from two centres as a prospective case series of 13 patients with neglected ununited tibial eminence fractures: nine were girls and four were boys; ten were right knees and three were left. The average age at surgery was ten [standard deviation (SD) 2.6] years. Average follow-up was 10.8 (SD 6.8) months. Primary outcome measures used for evaluation were the Objective International Knee Documentation Committee Score (IKDC), subjective IKDC and modified Lysholm knee score. Secondary outcome measures were visual analogue scales (VAS) for pain and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Twelve patients had grade A objective IKDC score and one patient had grade B. Average subjective IKDC score was 80.5 (SD 16.7). Average modified Lysholm score was 91.2 (SD 8.9). Average VAS for operation satisfaction was 9.6 (SD 0.5) and for pain was 0.4 (SD 0.5). All patients showed radiological union and anatomical reduction at an average of 12.4 weeks postoperatively. At follow-up, all 13 patients showed complete range of motion (ROM). Eleven patients had negative Lachman, anterior drawer and pivot-shift tests, while two patients had grade 1 positive Lachman and negative anterior drawer and pivot-shift tests. No patient had complained of instability.

CONCLUSION

Neglected ununited tibial eminence fractures in skeletally immature patients achieve good functional outcome results when treated with arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation using sutures.

Arthroscopic suture fixation of tibial eminence fractures

Tibial eminence avulsion fractures are relatively rare injuries, most frequently occurring in skeletally immature patients. Screws or suture fixation can be used, with each offering different potential advantages. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of a suture fixation technique for displaced tibial eminence avulsion fractures using the Rotator Cuff Guide (RCG; Acufex Microsurgical, Mansfield, Massachusetts). In a 12-year period from 1998 to 2010, a total of 17 tibial avulsion fractures were treated using the RCG for suture fixation. Outcomes evaluated included pain at final assessment and findings from Lachman, drawer, pivot shift, flexion, extension, and varus/valgus stress tests. Demographic data, fracture type, mechanism of injury, and postoperative activity were obtained for 17 patients (16 males and 1 female) who underwent surgery during the study period. Average patient age was 16.8 years (range, 13-37 years). Average follow-up was 25 months (range, 2 months to 13 years). Postoperatively, all fractures in all patients were radiographically healed, and all patients had stable Lachman and negative pivot shift tests. Two patients had 3° of extension loss, and 1 patient lost greater than 10° of knee flexion. The length of follow-up was broad. Further limitations include a small sample size and suture versus T-Fix (Acufex Microsurgical, Mansfield, Massachusetts) fixation methods. This technique offers a simplified, reliable method of suture fixation that provides few long-term complications and predictable results. Patients can expect to return to preinjury levels of activity, with the majority of patients achieving full range of motion.

ORV Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation of Tibial Eminence Fractures

Tibial eminence fractures are an uncommon but well-described avulsion of the anterior cruciate ligament. Treatment principles are based on the amount and pattern of fracture displacement. Management has evolved from closed reduction and immobilization to arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation followed by early rehabilitation. Various fixation methods have evolved, ranging from arthroscopic reduction and percutaneous screw fixation to arthroscopic suture repair. We present a technique for arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation using a cannulated drill bit and high-strength suture. This technique facilitates anatomic reduction with uncomplicated tunnel placement and suture passing in an effort to allow strong fixation and early rehabilitation.

Hybrid fixation of tibial eminence fractures in skeletally immature patients

Tibial eminence fractures most commonly occur in children and adolescents. When treating displaced fractures of the tibial eminence, some surgeons prefer screw fixation whereas others prefer suture fixation. The ultimate goal is to limit morbidity through early return to range of motion and activity. In this technical note, we describe 2 hybrid fixation techniques for fixing tibial eminence fractures, one for type III and the other for type IV fractures. The first technique (variation A) is used to treat type III fractures and combines use of both a bioabsorbable compression screw and suture for fixation. The second technique (variation B) is used to treat type IV fractures and combines use of both a bioabsorbable compression screw and shoulder anchor fixation. We have found that these methods provide efficient, secure, and reliable fixation using standard techniques common to arthroscopic surgery. In addition, the growth plates are spared in children and adolescents, and the need for reoperation to remove hardware is eliminated.

Pediatric ACL injuries: evaluation and management

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a stabilizing structure to both anterior translation of the tibia with respect to the femur as well as rotation of the knee joint. Children and adolescents are susceptible to these injuries, and there are some who believe the incidence of ACL injuries in this population is increasing due to year round single sport participation. Pediatric ACL injuries are typically seen in several forms: tibial avulsion fractures, partial ACL tears, and full thickness ligament tears. There were and still are some who feel that ACL injuries should be treated non-operatively in the pediatric and adolescent population; however, recent literature refutes this notion. Several factors must be considered during pediatric and adolescent ACL reconstruction, each of which will be examined in this manuscript, including: status of the physis, reconstruction technique, and graft source.

Effects of suture choice on biomechanics and physeal status after bioenhanced anterior cruciate ligament repair in skeletally immature patients: a large-animal study

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of absorbable or nonabsorbable sutures in bioenhanced anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair in a skeletally immature pig model on suture tunnel and growth plate healing and biomechanical outcomes.

METHODS

Sixteen female skeletally immature Yorkshire pigs were randomly allocated to receive unilateral, bioenhanced ACL repair with an absorbable (Vicryl) or nonabsorbable (Ethibond) suture augmented by an extracellular matrix-based scaffold (MIACH). After 15 weeks of healing, micro-computed tomography was used to measure residual tunnel diameters and growth plate status, and biomechanical outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

At 15 weeks postoperatively, there was a significant difference in tunnel diameter with significantly larger diameters in the nonabsorbable suture group (4.4 ± 0.3 mm; mean ± SD) than in the absorbable group (1.8 ± 0.5 mm; P < .001). The growth plate showed a significantly greater affected area in the nonabsorbable group (15.2 ± 3.4 mm(2)) than in the absorbable group (2.7 ± 0.8 mm(2), P < .001). There was no significant difference in the linear stiffness of the repairs (29.0 ± 14.8 N/mm for absorbable v 43.3 ± 28.3 N/mm for nonabsorbable sutures, P = .531), but load to failure was higher in the nonabsorbable suture group (211 ± 121.5 N) than in the absorbable suture group (173 ± 101.4 N, P = .002). There was no difference between the 2 groups in anteroposterior laxity at 30° (P = .5117), 60° (P = .3150), and 90° (P = .4297) of knee flexion.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of absorbable sutures for ACL repair resulted in decreased physeal plate damage after 15 weeks of healing; however, use of nonabsorbable sutures resulted in 20% stronger repairs.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Choice of suture type for ACL repair or repair of tibial avulsion fractures may depend on patient skeletal age and size, with absorbable sutures preferred in very young, small patients at higher risk with physeal damage and nonabsorbable sutures preferred in larger, prepubescent patients who may place higher loads on the repair.

Clinical outcome of arthroscopic suture fixation for tibial eminence fractures in adults

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of arthroscopic suture fixation for tibial eminence fractures in adults.

METHODS

Twelve patients with a mean age of 29.9 years (range, 18 to 45 years) were prospectively followed up after arthroscopic suture fixation for tibial eminence fractures. Along with clinical examination, Lysholm, Tegner, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) rating scales were used to evaluate the patients. Anteroposterior knee laxity was measured with a Rolimeter (Aircast, Vista, CA), and range of motion was measured with a goniometer.

RESULTS

Patients were followed up for a mean of 50 months (range, 25 to 69 months). There were no detectable signs or symptoms of instability postoperatively. The mean preinjury Tegner score was 6.1 (range, 3 to 9), and at follow-up, the mean Tegner score was 5.8 (range, 3 to 9). No Lysholm or IKDC scores were obtained and no range-of-motion measurements were performed preoperatively because all injuries were acute. The mean Lysholm score was 98 (range, 94 to 100), and the mean IKDC score was 94.7 (range, 89.1 to 100). Anterior translation of the tibia, measured with the Rolimeter, was 0.58 mm on average (range, 0 to 3 mm) compared with the healthy side. Postoperatively, the mean extension deficit was 1° (range, 0° to 5°) and the mean flexion deficit was 2.7° (range, 0° to 10°) compared with the unaffected side. Overall, knees were graded as normal or nearly normal in 11 patients and abnormal in 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Tibial eminence fractures in adults can be effectively treated with arthroscopic suture fixation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

A comparative study of two methods for treating type III tibial eminence avulsion fracture in adults

PURPOSE

Suture fixation is mostly used in arthroscopic treatment of tibial eminence avulsion fractures. However, no clinical studies of metal cable fixation have been reported. We hypothesised that cable fixation can provide equal stability and clinical outcome compared with Ethibond sutures.

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2008, we treated 42 patients of adult type III tibial eminence avulsion fractures. Twenty-three patients were male, and 19 were female. All patients were confirmed by radiographs, MRI, and arthroscopy during surgery. Ligament injury and meniscus tears were excluded from this study. Twenty-two patients were treated with No. 2 Ethibond suture fixation (group I), and 20 were treated with cable fixation under arthroscopy (group II). Follow-up assessments included imaging evaluation, Lysholm knee score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) classification, and the Lachman test.

RESULTS

Bone union was found in radiographic evaluation in all patients within 3 months. At the last follow-up, there was neither extension nor flexion limitation in any patient. There were no significant differences in the Lysholm score between the two groups at follow-up. All 42 patients were classified by the IKDC as normal or nearly normal. Stability based on the Lachman test showed two patients of grade II laxity in group I. At the final follow-up, all 42 patients had returned to their pre-injury activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Cable fixation to treat type III tibial eminence avulsion fracture can provide a clinical outcome equal to that of Ethibond sutures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Biomechanical comparison of three techniques for fixation of tibial avulsion fractures of the anterior cruciate ligament

PURPOSE

To evaluate the initial stability of a suture anchor fixation and to compare this with a screw fixation and pull-out suture fixation for anterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fracture.

METHODS

The initial fixation strength of 3 different fixation techniques, antegrade cannulated screw fixation, pull-out suture fixation with Ethibond and bioabsorbable knotless suture anchor fixation, was evaluated. Using 14 fresh cadavers (28 knees), the strength to failure, initial displacement and mode of failure were measured.

RESULTS

The strength to failure of the suture anchor fixation was not significantly different from that of the screw fixation and was higher than that of the pull-out suture fixation. The initial displacement of the suture anchor fixation was lower than that of the screw fixation and the pull-out suture fixation. The majority of the suture anchor fixations and the screw fixations were failed by pull-out from the bone. Eight of the 56 suture anchor fixations failed by pull-out of the suture from the ligament proper. And, one of the 7 screw fixations failed due to fracture of the avulsed bony fragment. All of the pull-out suture fixations failed by suture material rupture.

CONCLUSIONS

These biomechanical results suggest that the initial fixation strength of suture anchor fixation was not less than that of screw fixation or pull-out suture fixation. And, the initial displacement of suture anchor fixation was lower than that of screw fixation or pull-out suture fixation. The suture anchor fixation appears to be a good alternative fixation technique for repair of anterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fracture.

Physeal-sparing tibial eminence fracture fixation with a headless compression screw

Displaced tibial intercondylar eminence fractures frequently require operative fixation. Surgical techniques for fixation include the use of headed screws or sutures. However, these fractures commonly occur in skeletally immature patients, and current techniques violate the proximal tibial physis to maintain reduction and can result in growth disturbances. The authors present a physeal-sparing method for fixation of noncomminuted displaced tibial eminence fractures using a headless compression screw. They describe 2 skeletally immature adolescents in whom their technique provided maintenance of reduction until union and full return to activities.

Biomechanical comparison of tibial eminence fracture fixation with high-strength suture, EndoButton, and suture anchor

PURPOSE

To biomechanically compare anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tibial bony avulsion fixation by suture anchors, EndoButtons (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA), and high-strength sutures subjected to cyclic loading.

METHODS

Type III tibial eminence fractures were created in 49 ovine knees, and 7 different types of repairs were performed. Each repair group contained 7 specimens. The repair groups were as follows: No. 2 FiberWire (Arthrex, Naples, FL); No. 2 UltraBraid (Smith & Nephew); No. 2 MaxBraid (Arthrotek, Warsaw, IN); No. 2 Hi-Fi (ConMed Linvatec, Largo, FL); No. 2 OrthoCord (DePuy Mitek, Raynham, MA); Ti-Screw suture anchor (Arthrotek); and titanium EndoButton. These constructs were cyclically loaded (500 cycles, 0 to 100 N, 1 Hz) in the direction of the native ACL and loaded to failure (100 mm/min). Endpoints included ultimate failure load (in Newtons); pullout stiffness (in Newtons per millimeter); cyclic displacement (in millimeters) after 100 cycles, between 100 and 500 cycles, and after 500 cycles; and mode of failure. Bone density testing was performed in all knees.

RESULTS

Bone density was not different among the groups. The EndoButton group had a higher ultimate failure load than the FiberWire, UltraBraid, Hi-Fi, and suture anchor groups (P < .05). The MaxBraid and OrthoCord groups had higher failure loads than the suture anchor group (P < .05). The MaxBraid group also had a higher failure load than the Hi-Fi group (P < .05). Stiffness was not statistically different for the various tested constructs. After 100 cycles, the EndoButton group had less displacement than the FiberWire, UltraBraid, MaxBraid, and Hi-Fi groups (P < .05). The suture anchor group had less displacement than the Hi-Fi and FiberWire groups (P < .05). The displacements of the different tested constructs between 100 and 500 cycles and total displacements after 500 cycles were not statistically different. The predominant failure mode was suture rupture.

CONCLUSIONS

Under cyclic loading conditions in an ovine model, EndoButton fixation of tibial eminence fractures provided greater initial fixation strength than suture anchor fixation or fixation with various high-strength sutures except for OrthoCord.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

During initial cyclic loading of ACL tibial eminence fractures, the strength of the repair construct should be taken into consideration because conventional suture repair even with ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene sutures may not provide enough strength.

Tension band wire fixation for anterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture: biomechanical comparison of four fixation techniques

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to design a new fixation method to treat tibial eminence fractures and assess its stability compared with conventional fixation methods.

METHODS

Eighty fresh porcine knees were stripped of all soft tissue, leaving intact only the femur-anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-tibia complex. A standardized type III fracture was simulated at the anterior cruciate ligament attachment region using an osteotome. Then, the 80 specimens were randomly divided into 4 groups consisting of 20 knees each. The bony fragments were, respectively, fixed with sutures, steel wire, screws, and the newly designed tension band wire. All specimens were subsequently tested on a Material Testing Machine at a load rate of 60 mm/min. The statistically significant difference between the methods in terms of ultimate failure load, yield load, and displacement of the fragment under single-cycle loading and cyclic loading were analysed.

RESULTS

Steel wire encircling K-wire fixation showed significantly higher maximum loads, yield loads, and less displacement than all the other fixation methods tested. Specimens fixed with steel wire had the second highest maximal load followed by fixation with the cannulated screw. The lowest maximal load was observed in the group using PDS II suture.

CONCLUSIONS

The ultimate strength of tension band wire fixation of tibial eminence fractures in these specimens was significantly greater than those of the other three fixation methods. Tension band wire fixation of eminence fractures appears to provide biomechanical advantages over the other three fixation methods; hence, it is a practical alternative to conventional fixation techniques.

Biomechanical evaluation of tibial eminence fractures using suture fixation

This study evaluates the initial fixation strength of tibial eminence fracture repair using 1, 2, 3, and 4 sutures to determine the optimal number of sutures required to adequately secure the avulsed fragment to the tibia. Sixteen skeletally immature porcine knees were stripped of all soft tissues, isolating the femur-anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-tibia complex. Type III tibial eminence fractures were simulated in the specimens, and each specimen was randomly assigned to a repair group using 1, 2, 3, or 4 #2 FiberWire sutures (Arthrex, Inc, Naples, Florida). Initial fixation strength of the repair was measured by single cycle pull to failure testing using a materials testing machine (Instron, Norwood, Massachusetts). The mean ultimate failure force during anterior tibial translation was 389±128, 627±66, 703±77, and 802±29 N for 1, 2, 3, and 4 sutures, respectively. The lower limit of the 95% confidence interval was >500 N (estimated force of native ACL during activities of daily living) for each group with ≥2 sutures. In this study, at least 2 high-strength sutures were needed for tibial eminence fracture repairs to withstand potential forces seen across the ACL in the postoperative period. Suture fixation of tibial eminence fractures is a reproducible method requiring a minimum of 2 high-strength polyester sutures to resist forces seen during early rehabilitation.

Outcomes after arthroscopic excision of the bony prominence in the treatment of tibial spine avulsion fractures

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the outcomes after arthroscopic excision of the bony prominence after a tibial spine avulsion fracture.

METHODS

This study included 7 subjects (5 female and 2 male subjects; mean age, 21.4 years). All subjects underwent preoperative rehabilitation focused on range of motion (ROM) and swelling control. Postoperative rehabilitation focused on regaining symmetric knee hyperextension and flexion. Objective examinations and subjective surveys were obtained at least 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

All subjects achieved normal knee extension; 6 patients achieved normal knee flexion, whereas 1 patient had nearly normal flexion. Physical examination showed a negative Lachman test with a firm end point in all patients, and the mean side-to-side difference for the KT-1000 manual maximum test (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) was 1.3 mm. No subjects required subsequent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. All subjects returned to their previous level of activity without instability symptoms. At a mean of 5.7 years after surgery, the mean International Knee Documentation Committee subjective survey score was 90.6 points overall, with 4.7 out of 5 possible points for the instability question. At latest follow-up, the mean ROM was from 6° of hyperextension to 147° of flexion in the involved knee, compared with 6° of hyperextension to 148° of flexion for the noninvolved knee.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of arthroscopic excision of the bony fragment after type II, III, or III+ tibial spine avulsion fracture are positive, with good stability, symmetric ROM, and high subjective scores. Most importantly, this procedure allows patients to regain full, symmetric hyperextension of the knee, avoiding the complications associated with extension loss.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Arthroscopy-assisted fracture fixation

PURPOSE

the purpose of this article was to systematically analyze the results of published studies in the literature which evaluated the use of arthroscopically assisted techniques in intra-articular fracture fixation.

METHODS

published investigations to date were analyzed by classifying them according to joints that were involved with intra-articular fractures including: knee, ankle, hip, shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints. The results were studied to assess the feasibility, efficiency, and outcomes of arthroscopy-assisted fracture fixation.

RESULTS

arthroscopy-assisted techniques have been used successfully for the treatment of fractures of the tibial plateau, tibial eminence, malleoli, pilon, calcaneus, femoral head, glenoid, greater tuberosity, distal clavicle, radial head, coronoid, distal radius, and scaphoid. The major advantages of arthroscopic fracture fixation over open methods are direct visualization of the intra-articular space, decreased invasiveness, and the possibility for multitask interventions through which fixation of the fracture, and repair of the soft tissues and the cartilage can be performed simultaneously. The time-consuming and technically demanding nature of the procedures with a prolonged learning curve and limited fixation alternatives are the main disadvantages of this technique.

CONCLUSION

arthroscopic fixation is increasingly utilized for certain intra-articular fracture types due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedures and high accuracy. Randomized controlled trials are needed to justify wider use of arthroscopy-assisted techniques for treatment of intra-articular fractures.

ACL tibial spine avulsion: mid-term outcomes and rehabilitation

Tibial spine fractures are characterized by fractures at the insertion site of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) on the tibia and were first classified into 3 types. For displaced (type II/III) fractures, surgical treatment has included fixation with screws, sutures, or wires performed through either open or arthroscopic approaches. Optimal treatment methods remain controversial and are varied by classification type, surgeon preference, and patient age. We retrospectively studied the outcome of 22 surgically treated patients with tibial spine fractures. We analyzed factors such as age, skeletal maturity, fixation device, surgical approach, presence of comminution, loss of reduction, and rehabilitation protocol against the development of arthrofibrosis and clinical and functional outcomes. We found that age older than 18 years was a statistically significant factor for lower outcome scores. Two factors trended toward significance including; those with comminution had lower Tegner scores, and those with early range of motion returned to previous activity level more frequently. Factors found to be insignificant included surgical approach, fixation device, weight bearing, skeletal maturity, postoperative immobilization, and loss of reduction. Those with screw fixation had a higher reoperation rate due to symptomatic hardware removal. Age was the only factor that negatively impacted final functional scores.

Intercondylar eminence avulsion fracture in children: long-term follow-up of 14 cases at the end of skeletal growth

The purpose of this study was to report the long-term clinical outcome in a group of 14 patients treated for an avulsion fracture of the tibial spine. On the basis of the Meyers and McKeever classification, there were four type I avulsions, three type II and seven type III. Seven patients were treated nonoperatively and seven patients were operated according to one of the two different protocols: open reduction and internal fixation and arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation. At follow-up, four patients had clinical signs of joint instability, but no subjective instability. One patient with a type III lesion treated nonsurgically showed severe instability. All other patients returned to the same sport activity level that they had had before the fracture. We obtained good results in 13 out of 14 cases. Good results can be obtained when type I fractures are treated nonoperatively. Type II and type III lesions showed better results after arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation. Nonabsorbable suture fixation for osteosynthesis is recommended. The prognosis is strictly related to the type of fracture, anatomic reduction and articular congruity.

Pediatric tibial eminence fractures: evaluation and management

Tibial eminence fractures result from both contact and noncontact injuries. Skeletally immature persons are especially at risk. In adults, isolated fractures of the tibial eminence are usually associated with higher-energy mechanisms. The incidence of concomitant intra-articular injuries with tibial eminence fracture is high; MRI is useful in evaluating this injury. Nondisplaced fractures are amenable to nonsurgical management. Displaced fractures are managed with arthroscopic reduction and fixation with either sutures or screws. Although most fractures heal successfully, residual laxity usually persists because of prefracture anterior cruciate ligament midsubstance attenuation. This does not typically manifest in subjective instability, and reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament is rarely required. Patient factors, surgeon experience, and fracture pattern must be carefully considered before undertaking surgical repair.

Nonoperative treatment of tibial spine fractures in children-38 patients with a minimum follow-up of 1 year

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine if nonoperative treatment of fractures of the tibial spine (intercondylar eminence) in pediatric patients is the treatment of choice for these injuries.

DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective clinical analysis in a single department.

PATIENTS

All patients younger than 17 years presenting with a fracture of the intercondylar eminence between January 1, 1995 and December 31, 2004 were included in this retrospective study. Patients with ossification of the growth plate (physis) at the time of accident were excluded by protocol.

INTERVENTION

Nonoperative treatment with knee aspiration, reduction, and immobilization in a long leg cast.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

History-taking and follow-up examinations were performed using the Cincinnati Knee Score and International Knee Documentation Committee Guidelines of 2000. In addition, a magnetic resonance imaging scan of the injured knee was offered to all patients. SPSS 12.0 and Microsoft Excel 2000 were used for data processing and statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients have been included in the study. Twenty-three were female and 20 male. The mean age at trauma was 11.5 years (6-16 years). Only 1 patient required a change of therapy and needed open reduction. Thirty-eight patients were available for follow-up at an interval of 1-7.5 years after trauma (mean 3.5 years). None of the patients reported pain, swelling, disability or giving-way, or was handicapped in their daily life. Of 26 magnetic resonance imaging examinations, we found a missing anterior cruciate ligament in 1 and a partial rupture in another patient.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, nonoperative management can still be recommended as the primary treatment for tibial spine fractures in children.

New trends and techniques in open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the tibial plateau

The operative treatment of displaced fractures of the tibial plateau is challenging. Recent developments in the techniques of internal fixation, including the development of locked plating and minimal invasive techniques have changed the treatment of these fractures. We review current surgical approaches and techniques, improved devices for internal fixation and the clinical outcome after utilisation of new methods for locked plating.

Single-tunnel suture fixation of posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical results of arthroscopic treatment of tibial avulsion fracture of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) by suture fixation technique through a single bone tunnel.

METHODS

We arthroscopically treated 28 patients (mean age, 35.3 years) with PCL avulsion fractures using 2 posteromedial portals. The bony fragment was sutured by use of a suture hook and was then reduced into the top of the tibial bone tunnel created from the anterior tibial cortex to the bottom of the fracture bed. Slight depression of 1 to 3 mm of the osseous fragment was achieved. We followed up 24 cases for more than 2 years.

RESULTS

The fracture usually healed at 6 to 12 weeks (mean, 2.8 months) after surgery. At the last follow-up, all patients achieved normal range of motion of the knees, except for 2 patients who had 5 degrees and 10 degrees terminal flexion limitations of the involved knees, respectively. KT-1000 examination (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) showed that the side-to-side difference was 0 to 2 mm in 23 patients and 3 mm in 1 patient, with a mean of 0.7 +/- 0.8 mm. The Lysholm score was 92 to 100, with a mean of 95.2 +/- 2.3. On the basis of the International Knee Documentation Committee knee examination form, the results were graded as normal in 20 patients and as nearly normal in the other 4. The mean Tegner score was 6.8 +/- 0.4 preoperatively and 6.6 +/- 0.5 at the last follow-up (P = .23).

CONCLUSIONS

The single-tibial tunnel technique seemed not only to simplify the procedure but also to facilitate slight depression of the bony fragment, which might have been useful to restore normal tension of the PCL. Clinically, this technique was reproducible and effective.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Clinical and radiological results of arthroscopically treated tibial spine fractures in childhood

The objective of this study is to report the clinical and radiological long-term follow-up evaluation of young patients arthroscopically treated for anterior tibial eminence fracture. Ten patients (mean age: 13.5 years) were treated between 1992 and 2006. At follow-up they were clinically and radiologically evaluated. Moreover, they underwent assessment with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) forms, Lysholm and Tegner knee scales and measurement with the KT-1000 arthrometer. At a mean follow-up of 85.8 months, all of the patients reported a subjective good-excellent outcome. Objectively, the Lachman test was negative in seven patients and positive in three patients; six patients (60%) registered a slight (+) to mild (++) pivot-glide test. The mean value of KT-1000 arthrometer measurements was 3 mm; all knee scales showed satisfactory results. Radiological exam always showed good healing of the fracture. Fractures of the tibial spine often lead to anterior and rotational knee laxity. However, despite this instrumental finding, patients usually do not report any type of restriction in their functional or sports activities.

Arthroscopic suture fixation of tibial eminence avulsion fractures

PURPOSE

This study presents the clinical results of a procedure for treating tibial eminence fractures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using arthroscopic reduction and No. 5 Ethibond sutures (Ethicon, Somerville, NJ).

METHODS

This prospective study analyzed 36 patients who underwent arthroscopic reduction and suture fixation for image-proven ACL avulsion fractures of the tibial eminence. The classification of Meyers and McKeever identified 6 type II, 16 type III, and 14 type IV fractures. The mean follow-up period was 34.4 months (range, 24 to 91 months). Follow-up assessment included Lysholm knee score, Tegner activity score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and KT-1000 arthrometer (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) and radiographic evaluation.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative Lysholm score in the 36 knees was 38 (range, 28 to 54); the mean postoperative Lysholm score was 98 (range, 83 to 100). The mean preinjury and preoperative Tegner scores in the 36 knees were 7.5 +/- 1.5 (range, 5 to 9) and 3 +/- 1.7 (range, 2 to 5), respectively. The mean postoperative Tegner score was 7.3 +/- 1.7 (range, 5 to 9). At final follow-up, 34 patients (94.5%) were classified by IKDC score as normal or nearly normal (grade A or B). The IKDC classification was abnormal (grade C) in 2 patients (5.5%). All 36 fractures achieved union within 3 months. No significant complications, such as arthrofibrosis, loss of initial fixation, or wound infection, were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Treating ACL avulsion fracture by arthroscopic suture fixation by use of 4 No. 5 Ethibond sutures can restore ACL length, stabilize fragments, promote early motion, and minimize morbidity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Arthroscopic fixation of anterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fractures using bioabsorbable suture anchors

This article describes a new technique for the arthroscopic reduction and fixation of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tibial avulsion fractures using bioabsorbable suture anchors. This described technique requires the use of anterolateral, anteromedial, medial mid-patellar, and lateral mid-patellar portals. A suture hook loaded with No. 2 polydioxanone (PDS) was used to pierce the ACL through the anteromedial or anterolateral portal, and bioabsorbable suture anchors were inserted through the medial and lateral mid-patellar portals. The five patients treated using this technique were evaluated at 1 year postoperatively. All patients showed bony union without anterior laxity or flexion contracture. The described technique provides firm fixation of fracture fragment and can be used in both skeletally immature and mature patients.

A novel arthroscopic procedure for fixation of avulsion fracture of tibial attachment of anterior cruciate ligament guided by meniscal stitching needle

OBJECTIVE

To introduce a novel technique in which meniscal stitching needle is used as a puller to induct steel wire to secure the tibial eminence avulsion under arthroscopic visualization, and evaluate the clinical results.

METHODS

From 1999 to 2005, fifteen cases of tibial eminence avulsion were treated with this new technique. Lysholm scoring scale system was used to assess knee function before and after surgery. Regular plain anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films were undertaken to detect the bony healing of avulsed fragment.

RESULTS

The operating time could be controlled within 30 minutes. No complications such as intraarticular infection, iatrogenic injury, fibroarthritis or nonunion of fracture occurred in this group. X-ray film revealed that bony healing in all 15 cases was achieved from 6 weeks to 12 weeks postoperatively. Lysholm score was improved from 19.1+/-15.2 (ranging from 10 to 56) preoperatively to 97.5+/-3.7 (ranging from 91 to 100) postoperatively on average in 12-54 months follow up (mean 23 months). The statistically significant difference was shown in Student's t test (t equal to 18.483, P equal to 3.100 x 10(-11), P < 0.01). Wire breakage was found in two patients whose wires were removed 8 months and 14 months after initial operation, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This technique has many advantages, such as simplicity, wide indications from type II to type IV fractures, minimal invasion, short operating time and predictable satisfactory results.