Tibial eminence fractures

Elective musculoskeletal surgery is associated with postoperative weight changes in pediatric and adolescent patients

Purpose

Patients of elective orthopedic surgeries often reduce activity levels during postoperative recovery. It is unclear whether these extended periods of modified activities lead to weight changes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in body mass index percentile in pediatric patients over 2.5 years following primary musculoskeletal surgeries.

Methods

Institutional records for utilized current procedural terminology codes were used to identify patients aged 21 years or younger who underwent elective surgery at a single pediatric orthopedic institution between October 2016 and December 2018. Non-primary surgeries and patients without preoperative body mass index measurements were excluded. Demographic characteristics, height, weight, and body mass index within 30 months of surgery were collected. Body mass index relative to age was calculated. Analysis of body mass index changes at follow-up intervals of 3-7, 9-18, and 24-30 months after surgery was performed for the overall sample, within surgical categories, and within preoperative weight classifications.

Results

A total of 1566 patients (53.1% female, average age 12.4 years) were included. Over one-third of patients were overweight or obese at presentation. The average change in body mass index percentile relative to baseline was increased at all follow-up intervals. Values reached significance at 9-18 months (p = .002) and 24-30 months (p = .001). While underweight and normal-weight patients had increased body mass index at all three timepoints, overweight or obese patients decreased.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing elective orthopedic procedures may experience significant changes in body mass index percentile postoperatively. At extremes of weight, patients experience improvement toward the mean, but most patients may undergo body mass index increases beyond what would be expected during normal growth.

Level of evidence

Retrospective level III.

Management and Outcomes of Tibial Eminence Fractures in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Tibial eminence fractures (TEF) of Meyers-McKeever type II-III-IV usually require surgical management. No consensus in the literature has been achieved regarding the best treatment option. The aims of the present systematic review were (1) to analyze the current literature and describe the outcomes of surgical treatment for TEF; and (2) to compare the outcomes of different surgical options using arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) with sutures or screws and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF).

METHODS

A search was carried out with Pubmed, Medline, and Cochrane. Key terms were used "tibial" AND "eminence" or "spine" or "intercondylar" AND "paediatric" or "children" AND "fracture" or "avulsion" AND "treatment". Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria. Demographic data, clinical outcomes, and complication rates were evaluated for each study. Means/standard deviation and sum/percentage were used for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Chi-square or t-student tests were applied. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

ORIF showed superior clinical outcomes (Tegner (p < 0.05) and Lysholm (p < 0.001) scores) relative to ARIF and a lower incidence of arthrofibrosis (p < 0.05) and implant removal (p < 0.01). The Tegner, IKDC, and Lysholm scores showed statistically significant superior results following arthroscopic sutures compared to arthroscopic screws (p < 0.001). The incidence of arthrofibrosis was higher after arthroscopic sutures (p < 0.05), the implant removal was higher after screw fixation (p < 0.001) Conclusions: Better clinical results with low complication rates were achieved with ORIF surgery rather than ARIF; arthroscopic suture fixation resulted in higher clinical results compared to arthroscopic screw fixation and reduced the incidence of postoperative complications.

Arthroscopic Assisted Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Spine Avulsion Reduction and Cortical Button Fixation

Tibial spine avulsion fractures, or tibial eminence fractures, are intra-articular knee injuries that affect the bony attachment of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). It is commonly seen in children and adolescents aged 8 to 15 years old and can be caused by noncontact pivot shift injuries or by traumatic hyperextension knee injuries, as seen in adult ACL patients. A thorough history and physical exam is important in these patients alongside proper imaging that will confirm the diagnosis of a tibial spine avulsion. Proper imaging may also demonstrate other associated conditions or injuries to the cartilage, meniscus, or ligamentous structures. Following diagnosis, treatment can be both nonoperative versus operative, depending upon the degree of displacement and reducibility of the fragment, as well as other concomitant injuries. For nondisplaced or minimally displaced, and reducible injuries, the patient can be immobilized in full extension for several weeks. For displaced fragments that are unable to be reduced by closed methods, open reduction internal fixation or arthroscopic fixation is recommended. In this Technical Note, we describe an arthroscopy-assisted reduction and internal fixation with suture tape through 2 transtibial tunnels with a cortical suture button fixation technique.

Intraoperative avulsion fracture of the intercondylar eminence in Oxford mobile-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: Case report

BACKGROUND

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) can provide good postoperative results and long term survival, but there may be complications. We present a rare case of avulsion fracture of the intercondylar eminence during UKA surgery.

CASE PRESENTATION

An 88-year-old man had right-knee pain with anteromedial osteoarthritis. Oxford partial knee UKA (Zimmer Biomet, Warsaw, IN) was performed by the senior author by the under-vastus approach using Microplasty instruments. During the final check of the range of motion, an avulsion fracture of the intercondylar eminence occurred at the terminal extension. A 4.0 mm cannulated cancellous screw was inserted into the intercondylar eminence from just in front of the anterior cruciate ligament to the posterior tibial cortex. Six months postoperatively, bony fusion was confirmed by lateral radiography. Two years after the surgery, the patient was fully satisfied. The flexion angle was 125°, but still with an extension limit of 10°.

DISCUSSION

Avulsion fracture of the intercondylar eminence can be caused by hyperextension and/or the ACL becoming tighter in full extension of the knee. In this patient, avulsion fracture also probably occurred due to increased tension of the ACL in the fully extended position. After making the horizontal cut, we inserted a thin metal plate to prevent deeper vertical cuts, but an excessive horizontal cut was a possible cause of the fracture. As treatment for avulsion fracture of the intercondylar eminence, fixation of the cannulated cancellous screw resulted in uneventful bone fusion. We recommend having a cannulated cancellous screw at hand for such complications and for other potential intraoperative problems, such as tibial plateau fracture. Further investigation into limited postoperative extension might be needed.

CONCLUSION

Our patient had intraoperative avulsion fracture of the intercondylar eminence, a relatively rare complication of Oxford UKA which is probably caused by the extension being tight and/or an excessive horizontal cut. Having a cannulated cancellous screw at hand is advised, and attention should be paid to postoperative limit of extension.

Imaging Utilization Patterns and Injury Characteristics Associated with Electric Standing Scooters in a Major Urban Area

BACKGROUND

The recent proliferation of electric standing scooters in major urban areas of the United States has been accompanied by injuries of varying severity and nature, representing a growing public health concern.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to characterize imaging utilization patterns for injuries associated with electric scooter (e-scooter) use, including their initial emergency department (ED) management.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of the electronic medical record for all patients presenting to affiliated EDs for e-scooter-related injuries between July 2018 and April 2020. Demographics, date and time of presentation, imaging study type, resultant injury, and procedural details were recorded.

RESULTS

Ninety-seven patients were included; mean age was 27.6 years. Of these, 55 patients (57%) had injuries identified on imaging and 40% of all imaging studies were positive. Most identified injuries (61%) were musculoskeletal, with a small number of neurological (2%) and genitourinary (1%) injuries. The highest prevalence of presentations occurred in August; most patients (72%) presented between 3 pm and 1 am and granular peaks were between 12 am and 1 am and 5 pm and 6 pm.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients presenting with e-scooter injuries have a high likelihood of injury to the radial head, nasal bone, and malleoli. Emergency physicians should be especially vigilant for injuries in these areas at presentation. Visceral injuries are uncommon but may be severe enough to warrant surgery.

Overgrowth After Pediatric Tibial Spine Repair with Symptomatic Leg Length Discrepancy: A Case Report

CASE

A 12-year-old girl sustained a right-sided tibial spine fracture while jumping on a trampoline. Postoperative course was complicated initially by arthrofibrosis requiring manipulation under anesthesia and subsequent leg length discrepancy attributed to posttraumatic overgrowth necessitating femoral epiphysiodesis. Ten years after initial injury, she reported her knee to be 63% of normal and an International Knee Documentation Committee score of 63.2. Symptomatic overgrowth requiring epiphysiodesis after tibial spine repair has not been previously reported to our knowledge.

CONCLUSION

Tibial spine fixation, although previously associated with growth arrest because of physeal damage, may also result in symptomatic limb overgrowth.

Management and Complications in Nonoperative Fractures of the Tibial Spine: A Systematic Review

Effective options exist for acute nonoperative management of anterior tibial spine fractures, yet there exists a paucity of literature describing long-term outcomes for these patients. This systematic review thus aims to consolidate management strategies and complications for patients with nonoperative anterior tibial spine fractures. In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, 5 databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Pubmed) were searched and screened in duplicate. Quality assessment was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. Of 485 studies identified in the initial search, a total of 18 studies involving 369 patients were eligible for this review. These were stratified into 173 type I, 124 type II, and 72 type III injuries as described by Meyers and McKeever. All patients were treated with knee immobilization in either full extension or slight flexion, with possible closed reduction and/or aspiration of hemarthrosis. Complications at final follow-up comprised 33.9% of patients with persistent stiffness, 19.4% persistent instability, 11.1% mechanical symptoms, 6.37 delayed anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, 4.9% delayed operative intervention for other complications, and 1.9% extension impingement. Given the lack of comparative studies in this review, definitive conclusions for nonoperative management are difficult to establish on the basis of the current body of literature alone. A modestly higher rate of arthrofibrosis and persistent laxity are seen in higher-grade injuries, however, only a minority of studies stratified complications by Meyers and McKeever classification in this review. A better understanding of variables in treatment decision making require further prospective study focused on the collection of functional and patient-reported outcome measures, whereas also further delineating complications by injury severity.

Arthroscopic Reduction and Fixation by Cerclage Wire Loop for Tibial Spine Avulsion in Adults: Short-term Results

Background:

Several arthroscopic techniques for the treatment of avulsion tibial spine fractures have been described in the literature.

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcomes of the arthroscopically assisted stainless steel wiring technique in the treatment of avulsed tibial spine in adults.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This retrospective study involved 28 patients (28 knees), 16 to 42 years of age, with tibial spine avulsion fracture that was treated using arthroscopic reduction and cerclage wire fixation by a single surgeon between March 2015 and August 2018. The degrees of avulsion in these patients were type II (n = 12), type III (n = 10), and type IV fractures (n = 6). Clinical assessment included International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) objective score (which noted swelling), range of knee movement, Tegner activity scale, Lachman test, and pivot-shift test compared with the normal opposite knee.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 24.1 months (range, 18-30 months). The mean IKDC score was 93.7 (range, 88.5-98.9); the IKDC score was normal in 22 patients and nearly normal in 6 patients. The Lachman test was grade 1 in 25 patients and grade 2 in 3 patients, whereas the pivot-shift test was grade 0 in 26 patients and grade 1 in 2 patients. All patients achieved their preinjury Tegner activity levels. Radiological assessment showed healing in all patients within a mean of 12 weeks after surgery.

Conclusion:

The outcomes of all patients were satisfactory; fixation by cerclage wiring permitted reduction of tibial spine fragment anatomically to its fracture bed, provided stable fixation in displaced tibial spine avulsion, and allowed for early rehabilitation and weightbearing because of stable fixation.

Awareness and knowledge about anterior cruciate ligament injury among the general adult population of Saudi Arabia

Background:

The literature shows that data regarding the Saudi public's knowledge about anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is still limited.

Aims:

This study aimed to determine the knowledge toward ACL injury in the general population of Saudi Arabia, as well as to investigate the main sources of information about ACL among the public.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among a sample of 408 participants from all regions of Saudi Arabia. All participants completed an anonymous self-administered questionnaire, which included questions about their sociodemographic details and a structured tool to measure their knowledge about ACL injuries.

Results:

The present study showed that among 408 participants, 233 (57.1%) had adequate knowledge about ACL injuries, and 253 (62.0%) appreciated the seriousness of ACL injuries. The level of knowledge about ACL injuries was significantly associated with higher educational level (P = 0.000), but not with sex (P = 0.424) and region of residence (P = 0.404). Most of the participants agreed that ACL injury is a multi-factorial condition that results from a combination of factors, including sports, lack of warm-up before exercise, car accidents, old age, and lifting heavy objects. Internet, TV, and books were the most common sources of information about ACL injuries.

Conclusions:

While over half of the participants were aware of ACL injury, its seriousness, and its common risk factors, there are still knowledge gaps regarding ACL injury symptoms. Therefore, we recommend increasing public awareness about ACL injury, specifically through health education websites and TV programs.

Tibial Eminence Involvement With Tibial Plateau Fracture Predicts Slower Recovery and Worse Postoperative Range of Knee Motion

OBJECTIVES

To examine 1-year functional and clinical outcomes in patients with tibial plateau fractures with tibial eminence involvement.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.

SETTING

Academic Medical Center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

All patients who presented with a tibial plateau fracture (Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) 41-B and 41-C).

INTERVENTION

Patients were divided into fractures with a tibial eminence component (+TE) and those without (-TE) cohorts. All patients underwent similar surgical approaches and fixation techniques for fractures. No tibial eminence fractures received fixation specifically.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Short musculoskeletal functional assessment (SMFA), pain (Visual Analogue Scale), and knee range-of-motion (ROM) were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and compared between cohorts.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety-three patients were included for review. Patients with OTA 41-C fractures were more likely to have an associated TE compared with 41-B fractures (63% vs. 28%, P < 0.01). At 3 months postoperatively, the +TE cohort was noted to have worse knee ROM (75.16 ± 51 vs. 86.82 ± 53 degree, P = 0.06). At 6 months, total SMFA and knee ROM was significantly worse in the +TE cohort (29 ± 17 vs. 21 ± 18, P ≤ 0.01; 115.6 ± 20 vs. 124.1 ± 15, P = 0.01). By 12 months postoperatively, only knee ROM remained significantly worse in the +TE cohort (118.7 ± 15 vs. 126.9 ± 13, P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed that tibial eminence involvement was a significant predictor of ROM at 6 and 12 months and SFMA at 6 months. Body mass index was found to be a significant predictor of ROM and age was a significant predictor of total SMFA at all time points.

CONCLUSION

Knee ROM remains worse throughout the postoperative period in the +TE cohort. Functional outcome improves less rapidly in the +TE cohort but achieves similar results by 1 year.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Results of Displaced Pediatric Tibial Spine Fractures: A Comparison Between Open, Arthroscopic, and Closed Management

BACKGROUND

Displaced tibial spine fractures are frequently treated with surgical reduction and fixation, but no comparison studies have been performed. This study was undertaken to compare fragment reduction and adverse outcomes between open arthrotomy [open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)], arthroscopy [arthroscopic-assisted internal fixation (AAIF)], and closed management [closed management and casting (CMC)] of pediatric tibial spine fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective review of children treated for displaced tibial spine fractures from 2003 to 2011 was performed after categorizing into the 3 treatment groups. Demographics, mechanism of injury, radiographic measures (plain film and computed tomography), treatment, duration of immobilization and follow-up, final range of motion, and complications were recorded. Families were contacted to obtain long-term Lysholm scores, return to activity, pain, and satisfaction with treatment.

RESULTS

Seventy-six children (mean age, 12.4 y) met criteria with 29 ORIF, 28 AAIF, and 19 CMC. Radiographic measurements between x-ray and computed tomography scans found a mean error of 1 mm (SD=1.33 mm; inter-class coefficient = 0.977, P < 0.001). Initial fracture displacement was similar between AAIF and ORIF, 10.3 ± 4.4 mm and 10.8 ± 3.9 mm; but, less in CMC group (5.3 ± 2.6 mm). The mean reduction amount was 8.6 ± 4.7, 9.1 ± 4.0, and 2.3 ± 2.6 mm, respectively. A Bonferroni post hoc analysis revealed a difference between surgical and nonoperative reduction (P < 0.001), but not between AAIF and ORIF (P=0.9). Arthrofibrosis occurred with equal frequency in surgical cohorts (AAIF 12.5%, ORIF 11.1%), compared with none in the CMC group. Yet, the CMC group had a 16.7% risk for reoperation secondary to instability, loose bodies, or impingement. Twenty-four percent of each cohort was available (at mean 6.0 y) for interview with mean (median) Lysholm score: ORIF 97.4 (99), AAIF 95 (100), and CMC 86 (97.5), P = 0.35.

CONCLUSIONS

Open or arthroscopic treatment of displaced tibial spine fractures affords a better reduction than closed management, but with higher risk for arthrofibrosis. Closed management may be successful when displacement is < 5 mm, and advanced imaging may not be necessary to delineate the amount of displacement.

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.

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.

Avulsion fractures of the pediatric knee

Although avulsion fractures of the pediatric knee are uncommon, they are important injuries to recognize because they are frequently associated with adjacent soft-tissue and osteocartilaginous abnormalities. Related injuries, which include entrapment of soft-tissue structures, intra-articular fracture extension, and intra-articular loose bodies, can complicate or alter therapy. The most commonly affected soft-tissue structures include the cruciate ligaments, collateral ligaments and supporting tendons, and extensor mechanism and retinacula. The purpose of this pictorial essay is to review avulsion fractures of the pediatric knee and to highlight associated injuries.

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.

MRI of pediatric patients: Part 2, normal variants and abnormalities of the knee

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to discuss MRI of the pediatric knee and familiarize the reader with conditions encountered in the pediatric population. Clinical scenarios are included to convey important concepts and to orient the learner to normal variants and abnormalities of the pediatric knee. The conditions discussed include, but are not limited to, distal femoral metaphysial irregularity, isolated popliteus tendon avulsion, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and discoid meniscus.

CONCLUSION

The knee is the joint that is most commonly imaged by MRI in children. Injury patterns and signs of other pathologic processes seen in skeletally immature patients are different from those seen in adults. Interpreting pediatric knee MRI studies may be a challenge for those unfamiliar with the evolving patterns of normal development and of the signs of conditions that are more prevalent in children. Through case scenarios, this article describes and provides images that depict conditions commonly encountered in the pediatric knee. Most of the described normal findings and abnormalities are more prevalent in the pediatric population than in adults, and a few of the conditions are, in fact, unique to pediatric patients.

Tibial eminence fractures in children: earlier posttreatment mobilization results in improved outcomes

BACKGROUND

Arthrofibrosis and decreased range of motion (ROM) are well-described sequelae of tibial eminence fractures. We sought to evaluate the effects of timing of ROM rehabilitation and postsurgical immobilization on clinical outcomes in children with fractures of the tibial eminence.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of all children diagnosed with closed tibial eminence fractures between 2000 and 2010. Patients were treated by experienced surgeons with uniform requirements for return to full activity.

RESULTS

Fourteen females and 26 males (40 knees) of mean age 12 years (range, 5 to 17 y) started ROM therapy for a mean of 23 days after treatment (range, 4 to 47 d). Seven patients required additional surgeries for arthrofibrosis at a mean of 3 months after initial fracture treatment (range, 1.5 to 5.5 mo). Compared with patients who started ROM rehabilitation within 4 weeks of treatment, those who started later than 4 weeks required more days to return to full activity (215 vs. 103 d; P=0.011) and were 12 times more likely to develop arthrofibrosis (P=0.029). Even when accounting for other factors in multivariate regression, earlier initiation of ROM therapy was associated with earlier return to full activity (P<0.001). Surgical patients who were immobilized postoperatively required more days to return to full activity (217.5 vs. 103 d; P=0.015) and had a higher rate of arthrofibrosis (36% vs. 0%; P=0.043) than those who were not. Age, sex, fracture classification, and operative versus nonoperative treatment did not have a statistically significant effect on our multivariate model.

CONCLUSIONS

After definitive treatment, early implementation of ROM rehabilitation results in a more rapid return to full activity. ROM therapy within 4 weeks of treatment results in sooner return to full activity and decreases the likelihood of eventual arthrofibrosis. In surgical patients, postoperative immobilization results in a longer delay until return to full activity and a higher rate of arthrofibrosis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level III.

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.

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.

Tibial spine fractures: a long-term follow-up study of open reduction and internal fixation

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the long-term (5-27 years) functional and radiologic results of surgically treated tibial spine fractures.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-four surgically treated consecutive patients with 44 displaced tibial spine fractures were included in this study. All fractures were classified according to a modified Meyers and McKeever classification. There were 24 men and 20 women. The mean age at time of accident was 24 years (range 9-57 years). Sixteen patients had an open physis at the time of trauma. There were 36 patients with isolated fractures and 8 with multiple fractures. All patients were seen for a 1-year follow-up, and 37 patients (84%) were seen for a long-term follow-up visit. Functional results of these 37 patients were graded using the Lysholm, SF-36, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities scores. Radiologic results were graded using the Ahlbäck score.

RESULTS

At 1-year follow-up, in all 44 patients, the fracture was fully healed. One patient (3%) needed revision of the osteosynthesis due to hardware failure, and in 1 patient (3%), a deep infection (purulent arthritis) developed that was treated by surgical irrigation. The median knee range of motion (ROM) after 1 year was 125 degrees (range 110-140 degrees). The ROM did not change significantly at long term. After a mean follow-up of 16 years (range 5-27 years), the median knee ROM was 130 degrees (range 115-140 degrees). As measured with an objective testing device, no statistically significant difference of anteroposterior stability between the injured and uninjured legs was found, with a mean difference of 1 mm (range -3.9 to 6.9 mm). The Lysholm score showed good to excellent results in 86% of the patients; the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities score showed a mean of 93 (range 40.63-100) points. The mean SF-36 general health score was 77 (24-99). The Ahlbäck score showed a moderate development of secondary osteoarthritis in 2 of the 37 patients (5%). The 16 patients with an open physis at the time of the operation did not develop axial malalignment at long term.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment of tibial spine fractures offers the possibility to regain full stability of the knee joint and good long-term results after open reduction and internal fixation with low infection rates. Knee function is adequately restored in most patients with a minimal risk of developing secondary osteoarthritis.

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.

Cartilaginous avulsion fracture of the tibial spine in a 5-year-old girl

Fractures of the tibial spine usually occur in children aged 8 to 14 years. Usually, radiographs will demonstrate a tibial spine fracture, with the degree of displacement. Tibial spine fractures in younger children have not been reported in the previously published literature. We report a tibial spine fracture that occurred in 5-year-old girl. The cartilaginous avulsion fracture of the tibial spine was not revealed by radiographs because it was limited to the cartilaginous portion of the proximal tibia.

Pediatric knee fractures

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Fractures about the knee are a common occurrence in children, and characteristics of the growing skeleton make children susceptible to specific fractures that do not occur in adults. The purpose of this review is to help the clinician to recognize, understand, and appropriately treat these injuries.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pediatric knee fractures are diagnosed by a comprehensive history and physical examination supplemented with appropriate imaging modalities. Depending on the injury, treatment may include immobilization, arthroscopic treatment, or open reduction and internal fixation.

SUMMARY

A thorough understanding of pediatric knee fractures will enable clinicians to appropriately manage these injuries and provide patients with a rapid return to preinjury activities.