Arthroscopic suture fixation for avulsion fractures in the tibial attachment of the posterior cruciate ligament

Arthroscopic M-shaped suture fixation for tibia avulsion fracture of posterior cruciate ligament: A modified technique and case series

BACKGROUND

Tibial avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are challenging to treat and compromise knee stability and function. Traditional open surgery often requires extensive soft tissue dissection, which may increase the risk of morbidity. In response to these concerns, arthroscopic techniques have been evolving. The aim of this study was to introduce a modified arthroscopic technique utilizing an M-shaped suture fixation method for the treatment of tibial avulsion fractures of the PCL and to evaluate its outcomes through a case series.

AIM

To evaluate the effects of arthroscopic M-shaped suture fixation on treating tibia avulsion fractures of the PCL.

METHODS

We developed a modified arthroscopic M-shaped suture fixation technique for tibia avulsion fractures of the PCL. This case series included 18 patients who underwent the procedure between January 2021 and December 2022. The patients were assessed for range of motion (ROM), Lysholm score and International knee documentation committee (IKDC) score. Postoperative complications were also recorded.

RESULTS

The patients were followed for a mean of 13.83 ± 2.33 months. All patients showed radiographic union. At the final follow-up, all patients had full ROM and a negative posterior drawer test. The mean Lysholm score significantly improved from 45.28 ± 8.92 preoperatively to 91.83 ± 4.18 at the final follow-up (P < 0.001), and the mean IKDC score improved from 41.98 ± 6.06 preoperatively to 90.89 ± 5.32 at the final follow-up (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The modified arthroscopic M-shaped suture fixation technique is a reliable and effective treatment for tibia avulsion fractures of the PCL, with excellent fracture healing and functional recovery.

Triple Threat Ttrauma: A Rare Case Report of Avulsion Fracture of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament, Lateral Collateral Ligament, and diaphyseal Tibia Fracture

We present the case of a 24-year-old male who sustained a fall from a motorcycle resulting in a rare combination of injuries, including avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and femoral lateral collateral ligament (LCL), along with an ipsilateral diaphyseal tibia fracture. This case report aims to highlight the importance of early diagnosis, appropriate management, and comprehensive rehabilitation for such complex knee injuries. We discuss the patient's presentation, radiographic findings, surgical intervention, postoperative care and long-term outcomes. To our knowledge this kind of injury has never been documented in the literature.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes After Management of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion Fractures

Background

There is no consensus regarding the management of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures and the expected outcomes after treatment.

Purpose

To systematically review clinical outcomes and complications after management of tibial-sided avulsion fractures of the PCL.

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

A literature search of Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials was performed in accordance with the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Included were studies with evidence levels 1 to 4 that reported clinical outcomes after treatment of PCL tibial-sided avulsion fractures in humans. The quality of the included studies was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. A meta-analysis was performed for patient-reported outcome measures using random-effects modeling with 95% CIs.

Results

A total of 58 studies published between 1999 and 2022 were identified. The mean MINORS score was 9.90 ± 4.12, indicating overall low-quality evidence with high risk of bias. The studies comprised 1440 patients (mean age, 32.59 ± 5.69 years; 75.2% males) with a mean follow-up of 26.9 ± 19.6 months (range, 5.3-126 months). Most patients were treated with open surgery (63.6%), followed by arthroscopic surgery (29.7%) and nonoperative treatment (6.7%). All patients reported significant posttreatment improvement in both subjective and objective outcomes (P < .05 for all). Arthroscopic surgery was associated with lower postoperative posterior tibial translation compared with open surgery (range, 0.6-3.2 vs 1.7-3.1 mm), greater preoperative to postoperative improvement in Lysholm score (54.6 vs 48.8; P < .0001), higher postoperative Tegner score (6.64 ± 1.03 vs 6.14 ± 2.29; P = .0448), and a higher rate of return to sport (100% vs 89.5%; P = .009). Nonoperative management was associated with a significantly lower fracture union rate (87% vs 99.1%; P < .0001) and greater postoperative side-to-side posterior translation (4.9 ± 4.3 mm) when compared with operative management.

Conclusion

Although nonoperative and surgical management of PCL tibial avulsion fractures resulted in high rates of fracture union and improvement in functional outcome scores and a low incidence of complications, nonoperative treatment yielded a high side-to-side posterior displacement (>4 mm) with a lower rate of fracture union compared to surgical treatment.

THE OUTCOMES OF POSTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TIBIAL AVULSION FIXATION WITH A SCREW USING A DUAL POSTEROMEDIAL PORTAL TECHNIQUE

Objectives

Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical results of PCL tibial avulsion fracture fixation performed with 4 mm cancellous screws using a dual posteromedial (PM) portal technique.

Methods

In a prospective study, we followed 12 patients submitted to PCL tibial insertion avulsion arthroscopic fixation using dual PM portals with cancellous screws from March 2014 to Jan 2020. The proximal higher PM portal served as an instrument portal and provided an optimal trajectory for arthroscopic screw fixation of larger PCL avulsion fractures. The lower PM portal was used as a viewing portal.

Results

Significant improvements were found between the preoperative and postoperative mean Lysholm scores at six months. The preoperative IKDC score mean of 10.13 increased to 89.3 at the end of six months. Minor adverse results with this technique were: grade I on posterior sag in five knees (41.6%), temporary stiffness in two cases (16.7 %), delayed union in one patient (8.3 %), and difficulty squatting at the end of six months in one patient (8.3%). Temporary extension lag was present in two individuals (16.7%), and fixed subtle flexion deficit of 3-5 degrees occurred in one individual (8.3 %).

Conclusion

The outcomes obtained with the proposed technique were similar to those obtained with open techniques, although mild flexion deficits and discreet posterior sag may be present in a significant number of cases. Level of Evidence II; Prospective Cohort Study .

Arthroscopic Direct Anterior-to-Posterior Suture Suspension Fixation for the Treatment of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion Fracture

Objectives

A posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture of the tibial attachment site is a specific type of PCL injury that is difficult and unpleasant to manage. The objective of this study is to report the preliminary results of a newly developed technique: arthroscopic endobutton‐suture fixation using a single tibial tunnel.

Methods

From January 2016 to January 2018, 120 patients with PCL avulsion fracture who met our criteria were recruited. Sixty cases were treated by arthroscopic direct anterior‐to‐posterior suture suspension fixation (endobutton‐suture group), and 60 cases were treated by arthroscopic screw‐suture fixation (screw‐suture group). All radiographic studies were recorded. The curative effect was evaluated by the range of motion (ROM), KT‐2000, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, Tegner activity scale, and Lysholm scoring system. For statistical analysis the Student t‐test was used.

Results

The average follow‐up duration was 24 months. Findings and difficulties in surgery are the following. The lax anterior cruciate ligament is one of the diagnostic criteria. The anatomic location of PCL avulsion fractures is deep and surrounded by nerves and vessels; thus, operating through this region is difficult. After each tunnel drilling, the debris at the edge of opening needs to be cleaned to avoid obscuring the operator's vision or wearing the sutures. In endobutton‐suture group, ROM improved from 0° preoperatively to 140.0° ± 5.6° at the last follow‐up (P < 0.001). The postoperative KT‐2000 arthrometric data at 90 N were available for all patients. The IKDC score was 23.6 ± 2.6 and 91.4 ± 4.1 pre‐ and postoperatively, respectively. The Tegner score improved from 1.2 ± 0.6 to 7.3 ± 2.3 (p < 0.001). The median Lysholm knee score increased from 40.4 ± 5.2 preoperatively to 90.1 ± 10.1 postoperatively (p < 0.001). The operative time was shorter in the endobutton‐suture group (p < 0.001). The Lysholm knee score in the endobutton‐suture group was lower than that in the endobutton‐suture group (3.1 ± 1.2 vs. 4.2 ± 1.8, p < 0.01). No significant complications were noted in the study.

Conclusions

The arthroscopic direct anterior‐to‐posterior suture suspension fixation is a simple and reliable method that not only provides better clinical outcomes, but also fixes avulsion fragments of any size.

Case report of concomitant avulsion fractures of the medial meniscus and posterior cruciate ligament

RATIONALE

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the strongest ligament of the knee, and avulsion fractures of PCL are a very rare type of injury. These injuries occur as a result of high-energy traumas, and different accompanying pathologies may be seen. However, tibial avulsion fracture of the PCL associated with a medial meniscus (MM) avulsion fracture has never been reported before. We want to present this unique type of posteromedial knee injury as a case report.

PATIENT CONCERN

A 42-year-old man presented with severe pain and swelling due to a ski injury.

DIAGNOSIS

Concomitant avulsion fractures of PCL and MM were detected after imaging.

INTERVENTIONS

Both avulsion fractures were treated with open reduction and fixation with lag screws using the posterior approach.

OUTCOMES

No complications were encountered, and the painless full range of motion and weight-bearing was achieved at the third month after the operation.

LESSONS

Anatomical reduction and stable fixation of these intra-articular fractures are essential for the stability of the knee. The posterior approach should be kept in mind to access these types of fractures safely. Care should be taken in terms of other injuries that may accompany the PCL avulsion fractures caused by high-energy traumas.

Symptomatic Nonunion After a Tibial-Sided Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fracture Treated with Open Repair: A Case Report

CASE

A 30-year-old man was in a motorcycle accident resulting in an avulsion fracture of the tibial insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). After 19 months of nonoperative treatment, the patient presented with a nonunion and symptoms of pain and instability. He was treated with an open repair with screw fixation through a posterior approach. Six months postoperatively, the patient returned to his work as a heavy laborer with full range of motion and no instability.

CONCLUSION

PCL avulsion fracture nonunion results in symptoms of swelling, pain, and instability. These symptoms can be treated with screw fixation through a posterior approach.

[Comparison of early effectiveness of arthroscopic suture bridge technique and conventional double tunnel suture technique in treatment of avulsion fracture of posterior cruciate ligament insertion]

Objective

To compare the early effectiveness of arthroscopic suture bridge technique and conventional double tunnel suture technique in the treatment of avulsion fracture of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) insertion.

Methods

Between June 2013 and December 2018, 62 patients with tibial avulsion fracture of PCL insertion that met the criteria were selected and randomly divided into trial group (using arthroscopic suture bridge technique) and control group (using conventional double tunnel suture technique), 31 cases in each group. There was no significant difference in gender, age, injured side, cause of injury, time from injury to operation, Meyers & McKeever classification, Kellgren-Lawrence classification, and preoperative knee range of motion, difference of posterior relaxation of bilateral knee joints, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and Lysholm score between the two groups ( P>0.05). The operation time and IKDC score, Lysholm score, knee range of motion, the difference of posterior relaxation of bilateral knee joints (measured by KT-2000 under knee flexion of 90° and 30 lbs) were recorded and compared between the two groups before operation and at 3 and 12 months after operation.

Results

Both groups successfully completed the operation, and the operation time of the trial group and the control group were (61.81±6.83) minutes and (80.42±4.22) minutes respectively, showing significant difference between the two groups ( t=12.911, P=0.000). All the incisions healed by first intention, and there was no wound infection and other early postoperative related complications. All patients were followed up 13-18 months (mean, 14.6 months). The fractures in both groups healed at 3 months after operation. No knee pain, limited movement, or other complications occurred. At 3 and 12 months after operation, the IKDC score, Lysholm score, knee range of motion, and the difference of posterior relaxation of bilateral knee joints in both groups were significantly improved when compared with preoperative ones, and further improved at 12 months after operation when compared with at 3 months after operation ( P<0.05). At each time point after operation, the above indexes and the grade of the difference of posterior relaxation of bilateral knee joints in the trial group were significantly better than those in the control group ( P<0.05).

Conclusion

Arthroscopic suture bridge technique in the treatment avulsion fracture of PCL insertion is simple and reliable, which can significantly improve the function and stability of the knee joint and obtain satisfactory early effectiveness.

Clinical outcomes of acute displaced posterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fracture: A retrospective comparative study between the arthroscopic suture and EndoButton fixation techniques

BACKGROUND

Tibial avulsion fracture of the posterior cruciate ligament is not rare in the clinic. Arthroscopic treatment is increasingly accepted, but the choice of fixation has been debated. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of suture and EndoButton fixation under arthroscopy for acute displaced posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures.

METHODS

A total 68 of 83 PCL tibial avulsion fracture cases from 2009 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Some patients received arthroscopic suture initially, and later the others received arthroscopic EndoButton fixation. Associated lesions were treated if present. The Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, KT-1000 arthrometry and plain radiography were evaluated at follow-up. The assessment data at two years of follow-up were used for comparing the two different fixation groups.

RESULTS

The follow-up time of 63 patients was more than 2 years. In total, 32 of the 63 patients were in the suture group, and 31 were in the EndoButton group. At two years of follow-up, knee function according to the Lysholm score was a mean of 92.5 with a 95% confidence interval [CI] of 89.45 to 96.40 in the suture group and a mean of 93.5 with a 95% CI of 90.52 to 97.28 in the EndoButton group (P=.785). More than 90% of patients in both groups rated their knee function as normal or nearly normal on IKDC subjective evaluation. KT-1000 arthrometry showed that there was no difference between the two groups, with 0 to 3mm of laxity in 91% of the cases in the suture group versus 90% of cases in the EndoButton group. All patients achieved bony healing within 3 months. No significant complications were noted in the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the arthroscopic suture and EndoButton fixation methods for acute displaced posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures resulted in comparably good clinical outcomes, radiologic healing, and stable knees at mid-term follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III; retrospective comparative study.

Arthroscopic Primary Repair of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is one of the four major stabilizers of the knee joint and functions as the primary restraint to posterior tibial translation. PCL tears rarely occur in isolation and most commonly presents in the setting of multiligamentous knee injuries. Several treatment strategies for these injuries have been proposed over the last decades, including ligament reconstruction and primary repair. Arthroscopic primary PCL repair has the potential to preserve native tissue using a more minimally invasive approach, thereby avoiding donor-site morbidity and allowing early mobilization. While arthroscopic PCL repair is certainly not an effective surgical approach for all patients, this procedure may be a reasonable and less morbid alternative to PCL reconstruction in selected patients treated for proximal or distal avulsion tears, with low failure rates, good knee stability, and good to excellent subjective outcomes. The surgical indications, surgical techniques, postoperative management, and outcomes for arthroscopic primary repair of proximal and distal PCL tears will be discussed in this review.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Dual Tibial Tunnel Double Sutures Knot-bump Fixation Technique for Acute Displaced Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fractures

Background

Many fixation options (Open and arthroscopic) are described for Posterior Cruciate Ligament avulsion (PCL) fractures. In this retrospective series, we evaluated functional and radiographic outcomes following arthroscopic dual tunnel double sutures knot bump technique for acute PCL tibial end avulsion fractures.

Methods

23 patients with acute PCL avulsion fractures who were operated between 2009 and 2016 by Arthroscopic dual tunnel double sutures technique at a minimum of two years of follow-up were included in the study. Clinical outcomes were measured by Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. The radiographic assessment included union status of fracture, the grade of osteoarthritis, and knee laxity.

Results

The mean age of patients was 34.43 years (range, 18-54 years) with a mean follow up of 52.8 months (36-94 months). At the final follow-up, mean subjective IKDC and Lysholm scores were 82.71 (range, 65.5-100) and 95.82 (range, 81-100), respectively. On the IKDC objective scale, ten patients (43.47%) were graded as A, 11 patients [47.82%] as grade B, and two patients as grade C [8.7%]. On kneeling stress view, knee laxity in 21 patients (91.3%) was graded 0, and the remaining two as grade I and II. The fracture had united in all cases by the end of 12 weeks except one which had non-union. 21 patients had no evidence of osteoarthritis at the final follow up.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic dual tibial tunnel double suture knot bump technique for acute PCL avulsion fractures is a safe and reliable technique that restores the stability and function of the knee.

Posterior cruciate ligament research output in asian countries from 2009 - 2019: A systematic review

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the number of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) publications performed in Asian countries and to identify factors associated with research output in this region.

Materials and methods

Searches of existing academic journal articles were performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library from January 1, 2009 until December 31, 2019.

Results

A total of 265 articles were published in the last 10 years in Asian countries, with an increase in publications after 2010 and an average of 26 articles every year. More than half (70%) of the articles were published in journals with an impact factor (IF) ≥1. The majority of the publications were cohort studies (27%), followed by case reports (16%), systematic reviews/meta-analyses (2.6%), laboratory studies (1.8%), and case-control studies (1.5%). South Korea and China had the most PCL publications, and most authors were from South Korea.

Conclusion

The PCL research output in Asia is low in quantity but high in quality publications, and the majority of publications come from South Korea, China and Japan, with most being cohort studies and case reports.

Clinical experience with arthroscopic suture pull technique in isolated PCL avulsion injuries

OBJECTIVE

to assess twenty two cases of isolated PCL avulsion fractures from tibial insertion, arthroscopically treated with suture pull technique, and to evaluate achieved clinical outcomes in terms of radiographic laxometry (objective) and Lysholm scale (subjective).

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Study includes 22 cases operated between April 2014 and March 2017. Patients less than 18 years old, presentation after 3 weeks of injury, concomitant injury in the same limb, with open wounds or with comminuted avulsed fragment were excluded from the study. All cases were MRI proven. All arthroscopic suture fixation technique was used in all cases. Follow up was done at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months. Mean follow up was one year. Subjective complaints, Knee flexion, Lysholm score and stress radiographs were noted.

RESULTS

Average Lysholm score was 96.3. Seventeen patients had excellent results and Five had good results based on Lysholm scores. In two patients, grade 2 laxity (5-10 mm) was present on stress radiographs but there were no clinical complaints. All patients achieved osseous union and had no functional limitation. Three Patients developed arthrofibrosis initially but gained functional range later.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic suture fixation method for PCL avulsion fracture from tibia is a good and safe method of choice for fixation.

Short-term clinical outcomes of arthroscopic fixation of displaced posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures with the use of an adjustable loop suspensory device

INTRODUCTION

To describe the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic fixation of displaced posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures with/without associated tibia plateau fractures using an adjustable loop suspensory fixation device.

METHODS

Four male patients who have sustained PCL tibia avulsion fractures with/without associated tibia plateau fractures were operated on in a single centre using an arthroscopic adjustable loop suspensory device technique. After arthroscopic evaluation and reduction of the fracture using a probe and PCL drill guide, a proximal medial tibial mini incision was used to drill a bone tunnel through the fracture fragment. An adjustable loop suspensory device was relayed through the bone tunnel via a transtibial manner, and the button device was flipped onto the bony fragment for fixation. The associated tibial plateau fractures were then fixed if present. Knee function at the last follow-up was evaluated by International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee Injury And Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm scores. Range of motion and knee stability were assessed, and fracture union was evaluated by plain radiographs.

RESULTS

All patients underwent the operation successfully with no major complications encountered. All were followed up for a minimum of 6 months. There was no instability reported by the patients or found during objective evaluation using posterior drawer test and reverse pivot shift test. All fractures achieved union. Mean post-operative Lysholm score was 91.5 (range 85-95), IKDC score was 85.1 (range 74.7-89.7) and KOOS was 89.3 (range 81.5-94.6). All patients returned to their pre-injury activities of daily living and work. Radiographic evaluation showed union at the fracture site in all four patients at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This arthroscopic procedure is a viable minimally invasive technique that is appropriate in minimally displaced avulsion fractures of the PCL with associated tibia plateau fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case Series, IV.

Knee Ligament Instability Patterns: What Is Clinically Important

The knee dislocation is a severe, complex injury that can be difficult to treat and is fraught with complications. The first step in a successful reconstruction of a multiple ligamentous knee injury is gaining an accurate and thorough understanding of the pattern of instability imparted by the injury. Evaluation begins with a detailed review of radiographic and advanced imaging studies followed by a thorough physical examination, often done under anesthesia, in conjunction with dynamic fluoroscopy. Failure to identify and reconstruct a damaged ligament may place undue stress on adjacent structures, resulting in complications and potential failure of the surgical procedure.

Open Posterior Approach versus Arthroscopic Suture Fixation for Displaced Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fractures: Systematic Review

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes between the open posterior approach and arthroscopic suture fixation for displaced posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures.

Methods

A literature search was performed on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases. The inclusion criteria were as follows: papers written in English on displaced PCL avulsion fractures, clinical trial(s) with clear description of surgical technique, adult subjects, a follow-up longer than 12 months and modified Coleman methodology score (CMS) more than 60 points.

Results

Twelve studies were included with a mean CMS value of 72.4 (standard deviation, 7.6). Overall, 134 patients underwent the open posterior approach with a minimum 12-month follow-up, and 174 patients underwent arthroscopic suture fixation. At final follow-up, the range of Lysholm score was 85-100 for the open approach and 80-100 for the arthroscopic approach. Patients who were rated as normal or nearly normal in the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee assessment were 92%-100% for the open approach and 90%-100% for the arthroscopic approach. The range of side-to-side difference was 0-5 mm for both approaches.

Conclusions

Both arthroscopic and open methods for the treatment of PCL tibial-side avulsion injuries resulted in comparably good clinical outcomes, radiological healing, and stable knees.

Arthroscopic suture bridge fixation technique with multiple crossover ties for posterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fracture

PURPOSE

This study examined the clinical outcomes of a newly developed technique, arthroscopic suture bridge fixation with crossover ties of PCL tibial avulsion fracture using two tibial tunnels and a posterior trans-septal portal.

METHODS

Records were reviewed of 18 patients (median age 33.5 years, range 13-55 years) with PCL tibial avulsion fractures treated with an arthroscopic suture bridge technique. Knee function before surgery and at last follow-up was evaluated by Lysholm and Tegner scores. A KT-2000 arthrometer was used to evaluate knee stability, and fracture union was assessed by plain radiographs.

RESULTS

Mean postoperative Lysholm (P < 0.001) and Tegner (P = 0.011) scores showed significant improvements compared with preoperative scores. Arthrometry showed that the mean side-to-side difference improved significantly, from 7.8 ± 0.8 mm preoperatively to 3 ± 1.2 mm postoperatively (P = 0.012). Radiographic evaluation showed solid union at the fracture site in all 18 patients at last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This new arthroscopic double-tunnel pull-out suture bridge fixation with multiple crossover ties and posterior trans-septal technique for PCL tibial avulsion fracture yielded good clinico-radiological outcomes, including satisfactory stability and fracture site healing. This technique can be a useful treatment option for PCL tibial avulsion fracture even with small comminuted fracture due to compression by the unique crossover configuration mesh of multiple fixation sutures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Management of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion Injuries: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Tibial-sided avulsion injuries of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) generally require surgical intervention. No consensus exists concerning the optimal surgical treatment approach for these injuries.

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review investigating the open and arthroscopic surgical treatment modalities, outcomes, and complications of PCL tibial-sided bony avulsions.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

The authors performed a systematic review of the literature utilizing PubMed and EMBASE from 1975 to present outlining open versus arthroscopic surgical repair of PCL bony avulsion injuries and comparing subjective and objective postoperative patient-reported outcomes, including Tegner, IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee), and Lysholm scoring systems, as well as rates of patient complications. The quest was performed in June 2016, and searched terms included posterior cruciate ligament, PCL, bony, avulsion(s), tibial-sided, open, and arthroscopic. Inclusion criteria included English-language studies involving surgical fixation strategies for PCL tibial-sided bony avulsions. Exclusion criteria included non-English language, case studies/case series, and subject matter not pertaining to PCL bony avulsions.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight articles comprising 637 patients met the criteria and were included in the final review. PCL injuries with a tibial-sided avulsion were the result of motor vehicle accidents in 68.4% of patients, with 59.0% of these injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents. The arthroscopic group had better IKDC grade A scores (78.9%), indicating a normal knee postoperatively, as compared with the open group (65.9%). The postoperative Lysholm scores were similar between the groups, with a mean of 95.0 in the arthroscopic group and 92.8 in the open group. The arthroscopic group also reported 100% return to preinjury level of activity, compared with 86.2% in the open group. The most common complication in both groups was arthrofibrosis, which was reported more often in the arthroscopic group (0%-35%) versus the open treatment group (0%-25%).

CONCLUSION

In patients with displaced tibial-sided PCL avulsion fractures treated operatively, surgical approaches render similar outcomes and risks. While the arthroscopic group had somewhat higher subjective and objective knee outcome scores, it demonstrated a slightly higher rate of arthrofibrosis. The clear advantage of the arthroscopic approach is that concomitant intra-articular injuries seen on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging, such as meniscal tears or osteochondral loose fragments, can be addressed at the time of the index operation.

Award Winning Research Recognized

One of the joys of the editorial team is selecting the annual Journal Awards. Recognizing research excellence is what we do. If a manuscript was ultimately selected for publication, it is already excellent, as we publish less than 20% of original scientific article submissions, and we received more than 1,300 such submissions in 2017. To be one of our award winners is to be truly "elite."

Arthroscopic Primary Posterior Cruciate Ligament Repair With Suture Augmentation

Isolated posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries are relatively rare and PCL injuries most commonly occur in the setting of multiligamentous knee injuries. PCL injuries can be treated with primary repair, which has the advantages of preserving the native tissue, maintaining proprioception, and minimal invasive surgery when compared with reconstruction surgery. Historically, primary repair of PCL injuries was performed in all tear types using an open approach, and, although the subjective outcomes were relatively good, patients often had residual laxity. Modern advances and increasing knowledge could improve the outcomes of PCL repair. With magnetic resonance imaging patients with proximal tears and sufficient tissue quality can be selected, and with arthroscopy and suture anchors minimal invasive surgery with direct fixation can be performed. Furthermore, with suture augmentation the healing of the repaired PCL can be protected and the residual laxity can be prevented. In this Technical Note, we describe the surgical technique of arthroscopic primary repair of proximal PCL tears with suture anchors and suture augmentation. The goal of arthroscopic primary repair is the preservation of the native PCL using a minimally invasive method and subsequent protection of this repair using suture augmentation.

A new technique for arthroscopic reduction and fixation of displaced tibial intercondylar eminence fractures, using suture anchor and EndoButton system

AIM

The study aims to describe a less invasive technique for displaced tibial intercondylar eminence fractures, using only one bone tunnel with suture anchor and EndoButton system.

METHODS

Seventeen patients were followed up after arthroscopic fixation for tibial eminence fractures using suture anchor and EndoButton. The patients were followed with clinical examinations such as Lysholm, Tegner, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) rating scales. Radiographic assessments were also performed during the follow-up for evaluating the healing of the fracture.

RESULTS

There were 14 male patients and 3 female patients with 10 right knees, and 7 left knees included. All the fractures healed anatomically at final follow-up. Also, no clinical signs of anterior cruciate ligament deficiency were detected. The mean Lysholm score improved significantly from 74.72 ± 3.24 (range from 70 to 79) to 96.2 ± 2.54 (range from 89 to 98) ( p < 0.001). The IKDC category was abnormal or severely abnormal preoperatively and all the patients improved to normal or nearly normal at final follow-up. The Tegner score also improved significantly postoperatively from 3.45 ± 1.02 to 6.34 ± 1.22 ( p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that the procedure is safe and effective, which can be another option for tibial intercondylar eminence fractures.

Reverse Segond fracture and associated knee injuries: A case report and review of 13 published cases

Reverse Segond fracture is originally described as an indirect radiographic clue for a specific injury complex of the knee joint that includes posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) rupture and medial meniscal tear. Herein, we describe a case with reverse Segond fracture associated with PCL avulsion fracture instead of PCL rupture. According to current literature review, reverse Segond fracture is not only associated with PCL and medial meniscal injuries, but also frequently associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries. Furthermore, medial meniscus and PCL may remain intact.

Posteromedial Versus Direct Posterior Approach for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reinsertion

Avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are usually found in pediatric populations. This study investigated which of 2 approaches-posteromedial or direct posterior-enables easier PCL reinsertion. Ten fresh cadavers were studied using direct posterior (10 knees) and posteromedial (10 knees) approaches. In both, a guidewire was inserted into the tibial insertion of the PCL as perpendicular as possible to the coronal knee axis. Then, the angle between the guidewire and the horizontal plane of the table was measured. The mean angle of the guidewire was 8.6° (SD=7.3°) with the direct posterior approach and 36.6° (SD=14.3°) with the posteromedial approach (P=.005). The direct posterior approach allows a greater degree of freedom compared with the posteromedial approach to reach the PCL tibial insertion. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(5):e1024-e1027.].

Biomechanical Properties of Different Fixation Techniques for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fractures

PURPOSE

To analyze the ultimate failure load, yield load, stiffness, and cyclic elongation of 4 different fixation techniques for posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures under cyclic loading and load-to-failure conditions.

METHODS

In 40 porcine knees, a standardized bony avulsion of the posterior cruciate ligament was generated. The osseous avulsion was fixed by the following techniques through an open approach: (1) direct anterograde screw fixation (3.5 mm with washer), (2) retrograde screw fixation (3.5 mm with washer), (3) cortical suspension button fixation (with No. 2 braided suture), and (4) direct suture cerclage (with No. 2 braided suture). The constructs were cyclically loaded 500 times (10 to 100 N) to measure the maximum elongation. Subsequently, loading to failure was performed, and stiffness, yield load, and maximum load were measured. A 1-way analysis-of-variance test was performed with significance set at P < .05.

RESULTS

Button fixation resulted in lower elongation (1.25 ± 0.27 mm) than anterograde screw fixation (2.17 ± 0.74 mm, P = .0058) and the cerclage technique (2.02 ± 0.24 mm, P = .0290). The cerclage technique showed a lower yield load (493.55 ± 88.86 N) than anterograde screw fixation (720.39 ± 139.0 N, P = .0012) and retrograde screw fixation (668.58 ± 147.59 N, P = .0145); it also had lower stiffness and maximum load values (51.2 ± 6.11 N/mm and 631.22 ± 101.22 N, respectively) than the anterograde screw fixation technique (65.6 ± 12.74 N/mm, P = .041, for stiffness and 817.5 ± 145.9 N, P = .008, for maximum load). None of the other results were significantly different (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The cortical suspension button and retrograde screw fixation techniques showed comparable structural properties to the direct screw fixation technique. The raw structural properties of suture cerclage still seem eligible enough to consider using this technique for fixation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In this in vitro model, all techniques appear to constitute a biomechanically stable alternative to traditional anterograde screw fixation. In contrast to anterograde screw fixation, these techniques can be performed minimally invasively.

All-arthroscopic treatment of tibial avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament

Background: The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture from its tibial insertion is a rare condition. Despite the further technical advent in refixation of avulsion fractures, the reported failure rate of current approaches remains high and the optimal surgical technique has not been elucidated yet.

The purpose of the current study is to present an all-inside arthroscopic reconstruction technique for bony tibial avulsion fractures of the PCL and initial clinical outcomes.

Methods: Patients underwent a thorough clinical and radiological examination of both knees at 3, 6, 12, 18, and if possible also at 24 months.

Clinical evaluation included subjective and objective IKDC 2000, Lysholm score, and KOOS score. Radiographic imaging studies included CT scans for assessment of osseous integration and anatomic reduction of the bony avulsion. In addition to that posterior stress radiographs of both knees using the Telos device (Arthrex, Naples, USA) were conducted to measure posterior tibial translation.

Results: A total of four patients (1 female, 3 male; ø 38 (± 18) years), who underwent arthroscopic refixation of a PCL avulsion fracture using the Tight Rope device were enrolled in this study. Mean follow up was 22 [18–24] months.

The mean subjective IKDC was 72.6% (± 9.9%). Regarding the objective IKDC three patients accounted for grade A, one patient for grade C. The Lysholm score yielded 82 (± 6.9) points. The KOOS score reached 75% (± 13%; symptoms 76%, pain 81%, function 76%, sports 66%, QoL 64%).

All patients showed complete osseous integration and anatomic reduction of the bony avulsion. The mean posterior tibial translation at final follow up was 2.8 [0–7] mm.

Conclusions: All-arthroscopic treatment of tibial avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament provides satisfactory clinical results in a preliminary patient cohort. It is a reproducible technique, which minimizes soft tissue damage and obviates a second surgery for hardware removal. Further clinical studies with larger patient cohorts and a control group are needed to further confirm these preliminary results.

Displaced Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative Study Between Open Posterior Approach and Arthroscopic Single-Tunnel Suture Fixation

PURPOSE

To retrospectively compare the clinical outcomes of displaced tibial-side posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures treated with open reduction and screw fixation versus arthroscopic suture fixation.

METHODS

From 2005 to 2013, all displaced PCL tibial-side avulsion fractures treated surgically-initially by an open posterior approach and later by arthroscopic-assisted suture fixation-were retrospectively reviewed. The cases with radiographic evidence of greater than 3 mm of displacement and/or grade II or III laxity on the posterior drawer test were included in the study group. The associated injuries were duly treated. A conservative rehabilitation protocol was followed until radiologic fracture union occurred. The patients' clinicoradiologic assessment data at 1 year of follow-up were used for comparison between the open and arthroscopic groups.

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients were available with 1 year of follow-up: 27 in the open group and 20 in the arthroscopic group. More than 90% of patients in both groups rated their knee function as normal or nearly normal. At 1 year of follow-up, knee function in terms of the Lysholm score (mean of 95.3 with 95% confidence interval [CI] 92.85 to 97.75 in open group and mean of 94.8 with 95% CI 91.38 to 98.22 in arthroscopic group; P = .812), Tegner activity level (mean of 6.8 with 95% CI 6.16 to 7.44 in open group and mean of 7.0 with 95% CI 6.44 to 7.66 in arthroscopic group, P = .677), International Knee Documentation Committee evaluation, and 1-leg hop test was comparable in both groups. The postoperative arthrometric laxity measurements with a KT-2000 arthrometer (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) were better in the arthroscopic group, with 0 to 3 mm of laxity in 85% of cases in the arthroscopic group versus 74% in the open group. Avulsed fracture fragments were usually united by 3 months after surgery. No significant complication was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Both arthroscopic and open methods of treatment for PCL tibial-side avulsion injuries resulted in comparably good clinical outcomes, radiologic healing, and stable knees at short-term follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Anterior arthroscopic-assisted fixation of posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures

Background

Avulsion fractures of the tibial insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) have always been regarded as rare injuries. The tibial attachment of the PCL is located in an area, which is difficult to access.

Hypothesis

To verify the effects of anterior arthroscopic fixation of PCL avulsion fractures.

Methods

18 patients with PCL avulsion fracture were included. The inclusion criteria were: (1) the fracture fragment size was greater than 20 mm; (2) surgery in the acute phase of fractures (<3 weeks). The intervention was anterior arthroscopic fixation of fractures. Outcome variables included posterior laxity assessment with KT2000 arthrometer, posterior sag sign, the quadriceps activation test, the reverse Lachman, posterior stress X-rays, range of motion, and the IKDC form assessment.

Results

Complete osseous union showed in all cases during the follow-up (24–49 months). The posterior laxity assessment demonstrated slight posterior tibia translation (<5 mm) on the femur in 1 patient at 89 N and in 2 at maximal testing. All were stable on the posterior sag sign, the quadriceps activation test, the reverse Lachman and posterior stress X-rays. Two had loss of flexion of about 10° (grade B). Others showed a full range of knee motion. According to the IKDC form assessment, 16 patients were classified as grade A and 2 were classified as grade B. 16 of 18 patients were absolutely pain free, and there was general satisfaction on pain questionnaire. All the patients returned to their pre-injury knee function. No revision surgery was performed.

Conclusions

The anterior arthroscopic-assisted fixation guided with a tibial PCL guide is a simple and feasible alternative for treating PCL avulsion fractures when the fragment size is larger than 20 mm.

Level of evidence

Case–control study, Level III.

Arthroscopic fixation of an avulsion fracture of the tibia involving the posterior cruciate ligament

A total of 22 patients with a tibial avulsion fracture involving the insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) with grade II or III posterior laxity were reduced and fixed arthroscopically using routine anterior and double posteromedial portals. A double-strand Ethibond suture was inserted into the joint and wrapped around the PCL from anterior to posterior to secure the ligament above the avulsed bony fragment. Two tibial bone tunnels were created using the PCL reconstruction guide, aiming at the medial and lateral borders of the tibial bed. The ends of the suture were pulled out through the bone tunnels and tied over the tibial cortex between the openings of the tunnels to reduce and secure the bony fragment. Satisfactory reduction of the fracture was checked arthroscopically and radiographically.

The patients were followed-up for a mean of 24.5 months (19 to 28). Bone union occurred six weeks post-operatively. At final follow-up, all patients had a negative posterior drawer test and a full range of movement. KT-1000 arthrometer examination showed that the mean post-operative side-to-side difference improved from 10.9 mm (standard deviation (sd) 0.7) pre-operatively to 1.5 mm (sd 0.6) (p = 0.001). The mean Tegner and the International Knee Documentation Committee scores improved significantly (p = 0.001). The mean Lysholm score at final follow-up was 92.0 (85 to 96).

We conclude that this technique is convenient, reliable and minimally invasive and successfully restores the stability and function of the knee.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1220–5.

Displaced avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament: Treated by stellate steel plate fixation

BACKGROUND

The open reduction with internal fixation is an effective approach for treatment of avulsion fracture of posterior cruciate ligament. The previously used internal fixation materials including hollow screws, absorbable screw, tension bands and sutures have great defects such as insufficient fixation strength, susceptibility to re-fracture, etc. Stellate steel plate is novel material for internal fixation which has unique gear-like structure design. We used stellate steel plate for treatment of displaced avulsion fractures of posterior cruciate ligament in this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

14 patients (9 men, 5 women; aged, 19-35 years; mean age, 28 years) with displaced avulsion fractures of the tibial insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament were retrospectively analyzed between June 2009 and June 2011. The mean duration from injury to the operation was 8.3 days (range 6-15 days). All the patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation of a stellate steel plate (DePuy, Raynham, MA 02767, USA). The Lysholm-Tegner knee function score criteria were used to analyze results.

RESULTS

The mean followup was 24.6 months (range 18-32 months). After 6 months, all the fractures healed and knee joint activity was normal, with no knee stiffness or instability. The Lysholm-Tegner scores were 97.1 ± 1.7 points at the final followup.

CONCLUSION

Owing to its unique gear structure, the stellate steel plate design can effectively fix an avulsion fracture block and it is a simple operation with short postoperative rehabilitation time and firm fixation.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Acute Tibial Avulsion Fracture of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament Using the TightRope Fixation Device

Avulsion fracture of the posterior cruciate ligament from its tibial insertion is a rare condition. Early surgical treatment has been regarded as necessary, but the optimal surgical technique remains unclear. The purpose of this technical note is to present a novel all-inside arthroscopic reconstruction technique for bony tibial avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament using the TightRope device (Arthrex, Naples, FL).