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

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

OBJECTIVES

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

METHODS

DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

SETTING

Urban academic level 1 trauma center.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

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

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Transverse patella fracture fixation: A cadaveric biomechanical comparison of cannulated screws and anterior tension band versus low-profile, multiplanar mesh plating

INTRODUCTION

Multiplanar mesh plating of patella fractures has become more popular in recent years. It was the goal of this study to compare the biomechanical stability of cannulated screw with anterior tension band to multiplanar mesh plating for fixation of transverse patella fractures in cadaver specimens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight matched pairs of fresh frozen cadaveric knees were obtained and soft tissues dissected leaving the extensor mechanism, joint capsule, and retinaculum intact. Transverse fractures were created at the mid-portion of the patella. For each pair, one specimen was repaired using cannulated screws with anterior tension band, and the second was repaired using multiplanar mesh plating. Each specimen underwent cyclic extension loading with loads increasing by 1.1 kg after every 50 cycles. Interfragmentary displacement was measured at the end of each interval at both 5° and 45° of knee flexion angle, with fixation failure defined by >2 mm displacement.

RESULTS

The specimens fixed with multiplanar mesh plating survived more cycles and higher loads than the specimens fixed with cannulated screws with anterior tension band (p = 0.011 comparing survival plots). After 150 cycles of extension loading, 3 of 8 of the specimens fixed with screws/tension band had failed, whereas none of the mesh plated specimens had failed. After 400 cycles, 7 of 8 of the screws/tension band had failed, whereas half of the mesh plated specimens had failed.

CONCLUSIONS

While a more technically challenging and expensive technique, mesh plating for patella fractures appears to offer greater durability than traditional cannulated screw with tension banding.

Lateral rim variable angle locked plating versus tension band wiring of simple and complex patella fractures: a biomechanical study

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of both simple and complex patella fractures is a challenging clinical problem. Although tension band wiring has been the standard of care, it can be associated with high complication rates. The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical performance of recently developed lateral rim variable angle locking plates versus tension band wiring used for fixation of simple and complex patella fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen pairs of human anatomical knees were used to simulate either two-part transverse simple AO/OTA 34-C1 or five-part complex AO/OTA 34-C3 patella fractures by means of osteotomies, with each fracture model created in eight pairs. The complex fracture pattern was characterized by a medial and a lateral proximal fragment, together with an inferomedial, an inferolateral, and an inferior (central distal) fragment mimicking comminution around the distal patellar pole. The specimens with simple fractures were pairwise assigned for fixation with either tension band wiring through two parallel cannulated screws or a lateral rim variable angle locking plate. The knees with complex fractures were pairwise treated with either tension band wiring through two parallel cannulated screws plus circumferential cerclage wiring or a lateral rim variable angle locking plate. Each specimen was tested over 5000 cycles by pulling on the quadriceps tendon, simulating active knee extension and passive knee flexion within the range of 90° flexion to full extension. Interfragmentary movements were captured via motion tracking.

RESULTS

For both fracture types, the articular displacements measured between the proximal and distal fragments at the central patella aspect between 1000 and 5000 cycles, together with the relative rotations of these fragments around the mediolateral axis were all significantly smaller following the lateral rim variable angle locked plating compared with tension band wiring, p ≤ 0.01.

CONCLUSIONS

From a biomechanical perspective, lateral rim variable angle locked plating of both simple and complex patella fractures provides superior construct stability versus tension band wiring under dynamic loading.

Evolution in the Management of Patella Fractures

Patella fractures usually occur as a result of direct trauma to the anterior knee joint, indirect injury as a result of eccentric muscle contraction, or rapid knee flexion against a contracted quadriceps muscle. The patella functions as part of the extensor mechanism of the knee, where large forces are transmitted, and its subcutaneous nature has made treatment of patella fractures a challenge. In this review article, we evaluate how the management of these fractures has evolved over time and the advantages associated with the various treatment techniques. There are few comparative studies looking at the different treatment types for fractures of the patella, with the goal of achieving a functional extensor mechanism with low rates of post-traumatic arthritis and metal-work irritation.

Can multiple miniplates improve the treatment of comminuted patellar fracture?

BACKGROUND

We have applied primarily multiple locking compression miniplates in treating multifragmentary, comminuted patellar fracture in combination with conventional fixation methods.

METHODS

Medical and radiologic data were retrospectively reviewed for the patients surgically fixated with locking compression miniplates in patellar fracture of AO/OTA 34-C3. The primary outcome was bone union at the final follow-up, and the secondary outcomes were functional outcomes and postoperative complications associated with the procedure. For the functional assessment, the Lysholm score, Tegner scores, and the knee range of motion was compared.

RESULTS

A total of twenty patients with AO/OTA 34-C3 patellar fracture were included in the study with an average follow-up period of 15 months (range:11 ~ 18 months) between June 2018 and November 2021. Eleven male and nine female patients presented an average age of 57.15 years. The primary fracture union was seen in all twenty patients, and the average time to the union was 15.6 weeks on serial radiograph follow-up. All patients did not show any postoperative complications, such as fixation failure, infection, or revision operations. Postoperatively, all patients achieved an average range of motion of 130 degrees, and the Lysholm and Tegners scores showed an average of 90.4 and 5.0 at the final follow-up, retrospectively.

CONCLUSION

Fixations with miniplates in comminuted patellar fractures can be a useful option for effective osteosynthesis due to their versatile, efficient, and low-profile nature.

To plate, or not to plate? A systematic review of functional outcomes and complications of plate fixation in patellar fractures

PURPOSE

Poor outcomes and high complication and reoperation rates have been reported with tension-band wiring (TBW) in the management of patellar fractures and particularly the comminuted ones. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functional outcomes and complication rates of patellar fractures managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with a plate.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMCare, CINAHL, AMED and HMIC were searched, and the PRISMA guidelines were followed. Two independent reviewers extracted the data from the included studies and assessed them for the risk of bias.

RESULTS

Plating of patellar fractures is associated with satisfactory range of movement (ROM) and postoperative function and low pain levels. We found a 10.44% complication rate and a low reoperation rate. Reoperations were mainly performed for metalwork removal.

CONCLUSION

ORIF with plating of patellar fractures is a safe alternative in the management of patellar fractures and may be associated with a lower complication and reoperation rate compared to TBW. Future randomized prospective studies are needed to validated the results of the present systematic review.

Patella Fracture Fixation With Novel Wagon Wheel Construct Versus Tension-Band Construct: A Technical Trick

SUMMARY

Internal fixation of patella fractures remains technically challenging. Cannulated screws with an anterior tension band have been associated with high rates of implant prominence, and fracture comminution can make appropriate application of a tension band impractical. We present the results of a novel technique using a transtendinous/transligamentous mini-fragment plate positioned peripherally around the patella with radially directed screws: termed the wagon-wheel (WW) construct. Compared with a cohort of fractures treated with cannulated screws with an anterior tension band, there was no difference in final range of motion and rate of nonunion. The WW construct had a significantly decreased incidence of symptomatic implants (5% vs. 32%, P = 0.02), rate of reoperation (9% vs. 38%, P = 0.018), dependency on gait aids (10% vs. 38%, P = 0.031), and a faster time to union (HR: 2.2; 95% CI, 1.28-3.95, P = 0.005). In summary, the WW was designed with the goal of obtaining peripheral plate fixation to maximize fragment-specific fixation while minimizing implant prominence. Patients treated with the WW demonstrated reduced rates of implant prominence and reoperation.

Anterior variable-angle locked plating versus tension band wiring of simple and complex patella fractures - a biomechanical investigation

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical performance of novel anterior variable-angle locking plates versus tension band wiring used for fixation of simple and complex patella fractures.

METHODS

Sixteen pairs of human cadaveric knees were used to simulate two-part simple transverse AO/OTA 34-C1 and five-part complex AO/OTA 34-C3 patella fractures. The complex fracture pattern was characterized with a medial and a lateral proximal fragment, together with an inferomedial, an inferolateral and an inferior fragment mimicking comminution around the distal patella pole. Eight pairs with simple fractures were split for fixation via either tension band wiring (TBW) through two parallel cannulated screws or anterior variable-angle locked plating, whereas other eight pairs with complex fractures were split for either TBW through two parallel cannulated screws plus circumferential cerclage wiring, or anterior variable-angle locked plating using a cortical caudo-cranial polar screw. Each specimen was tested over 5000 cycles with a range of motion from 90° flexion to full extension by pulling on the quadriceps tendon. Interfragmentary movements were captured by motion tracking.

RESULTS

For both fracture types, the longitudinal and shear articular displacements, measured between the proximal and distal fragments at the central patella aspect between 1000 and 5000 cycles, together with the relative rotations of these fragments around the mediolateral axis were all significantly smaller following anterior variable-angle locked plating versus TBW, p ≤ 0.01.

CONCLUSIONS

From a biomechanical perspective, anterior locked plating of both simple and complex patella fractures resulted in less interfragmentary displacement under extended cyclic loading.

Adjunct neutralization plating in patella fracture fixation: a technical trick

Patella fracture outcomes are positive overall; however, in some cases, traditional fixation methods result in complications, including loss of fixation and irritable hardware requiring removal. We present a technique of plate fixation that we believe has the potential to improve stability and is less offensive in more comminuted fracture patterns. Improved stability should allow unfettered advancement of rehabilitation without concern for loss of fixation. Lower profile fixation offers a potential for diminishing the presence of irritating hardware requiring removal. We present our technique for using plate fixation to augment more complex patella fracture patterns.

Treating Inferior Pole Fracture of Patella with Hand Plating System: First Clinical Results

OBJECTIVE

Inferior pole fractures of patella are notorious fractures where it is difficult to obtain rigid internal fixation by conventional methods. The objective of the study was to introduce the Hand Plating System (HPS), which was a novel surgical technique for inferior pole fractures of patella, and to report the radiological and clinical outcomes following the application of the surgical technique.

METHODS

The study was designed as a retrospective cohort study. Between July 2017 and December 2018, 30 patients who were diagnosed with inferior pole fracture of the patella without additional orthopaedic injuries were enrolled in this case series. After X-ray and 3D-CT examinations, all patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation by HPS with or without supplementary cannulated screw and lag screw stabilization. The bony union time, final range of motion (ROM), Bostman score, visual analog scale (VAS), and complications were measured as the clinical outcomes under a minimum of 12 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

All of the operations went well with the mean operative time of 76.2 ± 15.3 min. Bony union achieved in all the cases at an average of 9.5 ± 1.4 weeks after surgery. There was no loss of reduction, fixative failure, or surgical implant removal during follow-up. The average range of motion 1 year postoperatively was 0°-123.3°. The mean Bostman Score at the last follow-up was 26.8 ± 2.1 with the satisfactory rate of 100%. The pain feeling during walking as measured by VAS averaged at 0.9 ± 1.3. No complications developed except for one case of poor incision healing, which healed eventually after surgical debridement.

CONCLUSIONS

HPS was demonstrated as a secure fixation and as a kind of tension band for inferior pole fractures of the patella. Satisfactory recovery of knee function and low complication rate, including no need for hardware removal, could be expected.

Multi-planar fixation of displaced, multi-fragmentary patella fractures in elderly patients with anterior locking plates and cerclage wires: preliminary results

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of displaced, multi-fragmentary patella fractures in elderly patients treated with anterior plating and cerclage wires.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2018 and 2020, patients aged at least 60 years old undergoing anterior plating and circumferential wiring for displaced, multi-fragmentary patella fractures with a minimum of 12 months follow-up were included. Fragments were reduced and circumferentially stabilized by loop wires, followed by multi-planar fixation with an anterior locking plate and multi-directional screws. Postoperative outcomes were evaluated with the Böstman scores and range of motion. Patients were also asked about symptomatic hardware as well as satisfaction with postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients with an average age of 71.8 ± 9.3 years old were followed up for an average follow-up was 25.1 ± 8.2 months. At the latest follow-up, the average Böstman scores were 27.2 ± 3.4, and active knee flexion was 123 ± 14°. Two patients complained pinpoint implant irritation and underwent implant removal. Another underwent implant removal due to cultural reasons. Fifteen patients were satisfied with the operative outcomes, and one was unsatisfied due to intermittent patellofemoral pain. Cerclage wire breakage was noted in nine patients on postoperative radiographs, but none elicited pinpoint pain. No wound complications, infections, nonunion or loss of reduction were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior locking plates and cerclage wires in tandem provide reliable multi-planar fixation for displaced, multi-fragmentary patellar fractures in elderly patients and resulted in favorable clinical outcomes.

Biomechanical comparison of a novel tensioned cable construct versus tension band wiring for transverse patella fracture fixation

PURPOSE

Tension band wiring (TBW) is the most widely accepted method for patella fracture fixation. The purpose of our study was to compare the biomechanical efficacy of a novel cable construct to TBW for the fixation of transverse patella fractures. The tensioned cable construct was hypothesized to have less fracture gapping after cyclic flexion-extension loading and greater ultimate load to failure as compared to TBW.

METHODS

Transverse patellar osteotomies (AO/OTA 34C1.1) were performed on nine pairs of fresh-frozen human cadaveric whole legs (mean age 82.2 years, range 71-101). Treatment with TBW or tensioned cable construct was randomized within each specimen pair. Fracture site displacement was measured after 5000 flexion-extension cycles from 0° to 90° at 0.5 Hz. In load to failure testing, the knee was fixed at 45° of flexion and the quadriceps tendon was pulled proximally at 0.5 mm/sec until patella fixation failure. Comparisons were made using paired t-tests with alpha values of 0.05.

RESULTS

Eight paired specimens completed the cyclic loading. The tensioned cable construct had significantly less fracture gapping than TBW (2.9 vs 10.9 mm; p = 0.020). Seven paired limbs underwent load to failure testing, which revealed no significant difference between the tensioned cable construct and TBW (1551.6 N vs 1664.0 N; p = 0.26).

CONCLUSION

In this study of transverse patella fracture fixation, a tensioned cable construct demonstrated significantly less fracture gapping compared to TBW in response to cyclic loading with no significant difference in load at failure.

Outcomes for a custom-made anchor-like plate combined with cerclage in the treatment of inferior pole patellar fracture

Objective

An inferior pole fracture of the patella requires surgical treatment to restore the knee extension mechanism of the knee joint. Different from other types of patellar fractures, inferior pole fractures are usually comminuted, and other traditional fixation methods, such as tension band wiring, may not meet the fixation needs. We propose fixing inferior pole fractures of the patella with a custom-made anchor-like plate combined with cerclage and report the surgical outcomes.

Material and methods

This is a retrospective clinical study. From June 2018 to August 2020, 21 patients with inferior patella fracture treated at Hong Hui Hospital Affiliated to Xi’an Jiaotong University received a custom-made anchor-like plate combined with cerclage. Complications of the surgical fixation methods and final knee function were used as the main outcome measures.

Results

All fractures achieved good union, and the union time ranged from 8 to 12 weeks. No patients had serious complications, such as internal fixation failure or infection. The average duration of surgery of patients was 75.05 7.26 min, and the intraoperative blood loss was 60.099.49 ml. At the last follow-up, the range of motion of the knee was 120°-140°, with an average of 131.436.92°, the Bostman score was 27–30, and the Lysholm score ranged from 82 to 95. All patients showed good knee function one year after the operation.

Conclusion

We used a modified T-shaped plate combined with cerclage technology to fix inferior fractures pole of the patella, providing reliable fixation, allowing early functional exercise of the knee joint, and providing patients with good knee joint function after surgery.

Reoperation and Complication Rates Following Patellar Fracture Repair with Plates: A Retrospective Analysis with Patient-Reported Outcomes at More than 1 Year of Follow-up

Recent work has suggested good clinical and functional results with dorsal surface plating of patellar fractures. The primary outcome measurement of this study was reoperation rates for patellar fractures that had been treated with dorsal plating.

Methods

This work consists of a retrospective review of clinical and functional outcome data following repair of patellar fractures with dorsal plates. We obtained institutional review board approval for this study and conducted a review of 9 consecutive years of our group's trauma practice. We also contacted patients to assess patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after 12 months.

Results

Eighty-five patellar fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) via plating over 9 years. Eight (9.41%) of the patients required reoperation. Of the 72 patients with complete follow-up of ≥12 weeks, 3 (4.17%) had nonunion of the fracture site and 4 (5.56%) had loss of reduction of the fracture. The average Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score among our sample was 18.84 (slight symptoms); 72.41% of the patients in our sample had slight or no symptoms at ≥12 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that plating of comminuted patellar fractures is a safe, viable treatment strategy. The PROs at ≥12 months of follow-up data were promising. Additionally, dorsal plating may allow for early return of function and less postoperative bracing.

Level of Evidence

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

Functional and radiological outcomes following plating for displaced fractures of patella: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Patellar fractures constitute almost 1% of total skeletal injuries. Existing common operative methods include the use of different types of Tension band wiring techniques like cannulated screws and K-wires. The Patellar plating construct is a relatively newer operative method for patellar fracture fixation with promising outcomes with fewer complications.

METHOD

We conducted a pilot prospective study at our Apex Trauma center in twenty patients aged 18-65years with displaced patellar fractures, AO type A2, A3, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3. Fractures were fixed with low profile patellar plates (1.8 mm). Radiological and functional follow-up was done using X-rays, CT scans and BKS scoring (Bostman-Knee-Scale), Knee Society Score(KSS), and Tegner Lysholm knee scores respectively for two years.

RESULT

Mean functional outcome scores at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 2 years was 25.5, 28.3, 29.05 and 29.9 for BKS; 64.62, 84.12, 90.6, and 97.5 for KSS; 73.75, 89.7,94.8, and 99.3 for Tegner Lysholm knee score respectively. Radiological union, confirmed by CT scan, was observed in all patients at 3 months. Two patients had superficial surgical site infection (SSI) at 2 weeks. Implant impingement was also found in 2 patients at 3 months. None of the patients had a failure of fixation at the end of the study.

CONCLUSION

Patients with low profile patellar plate constructs have favorable clinical and radiological outcomes with minimal non-specific complications.

Plate osteosynthesis in patellar fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

To perform a systematic review and assess the indications, outcomes, complications, and union rates associated with plate osteosynthesis in patellar fractures compared to tension band wiring.

METHODS

The systematic search was conducted for articles in PubMed, Embase Biomedical, Cochrane central, and LILACS databases (date of inception to July 30, 2020). Articles were included if they were randomized control trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series (with more than five cases), which focused on the clinical outcomes of patients with plate osteosynthesis as a treatment for fracture of the patella and had a minimum follow-up of 3 months. All studies were assessed according to their level of evidence, the number of patients, age of patients, fracture patterns described, complications of treatment, and results summarized. Meta-analysis could only be done for two parameters (complications and reoperations) due to the paucity of data and heterogeneity of studies' limited statistical analysis. The data are presented as a review table with the key points summarized.

RESULTS

Twenty studies (seven prospective and 13 retrospective articles) identified 533 patients with 534 fractures who had undergone plate osteosynthesis for fracture of the patella. The most common fracture treated with plate osteosynthesis was 34C.

CONCLUSION

Basket plate was most commonly used for inferior pole fractures, while mesh plates were for intra-articular patella fractures. Overall plating was associated with better clinical outcomes, fewer complication rates, and high union rates compared to tension band wiring for patella fractures.

Patellar Fractures: Anatomy, Mechanics, and Surgical Management

➤

A preoperative computed tomography scan may be considered to improve surgical planning, as secondary fracture lines are poorly visualized on radiographs.

➤

Oblique internal and external rotation fluoroscopic views may be used intraoperatively to fully evaluate the medial and lateral facet articular reduction if direct assessment by visualization or palpation is not completed.

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Partial patellectomy for inferior pole fractures should be avoided, and bone-preserving procedures are recommended.

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A lateral arthrotomy may be used for direct visualization of the articular reduction for multifragmentary fractures. An inferomedial arthrotomy should be avoided to protect the dominant blood supply of the patella.

➤

Tension band fixation with cannulated screws yields a lower reoperation rate, improved functional outcome scores, and better performance in biomechanical studies than Kirschner wire-based tension band fixation.

➤

Preliminary studies of novel plate and screw constructs for osteosynthesis have shown promising results.

[Comparative study on the effectiveness of improved and traditional Kirschner wire tension band fixation in treatment of type C patellar fractures]

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of improved and traditional Kirschner wire tension band fixation in treatment of type C patellar fractures.

Methods

Between January 2017 and January 2019, 26 patients with type C patellar fractures were treated with improved Kirschner wire tension band fixation (group A), and 24 patients were treated with traditional Kirschner wire tension band fixation (group B). There was no significant difference in gender, age, injury cause, disease duration, and side and type of fracture between 2 groups ( P>0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 1 and 3 days after operation, the fracture healing time, and the occurrence of complications (skin irritation of Kirschner wires, failure of internal fixation, fracture reduction loss) were recorded, and the knee function was evaluated by Lysholm scoring standard in 2 groups.

Results

The operation time in group A was significantly less than that in group B ( t=-4.742, P=0.000). There was no significant difference in the intraoperative blood loss and VAS scores at 1 and 3 days after operation between 2 groups ( P>0.05). All incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 8-15 months, with an average of 11 months. The fracture healing time was (3.3±0.6) months in group A and (3.2±0.6) months in group B, showing no significant difference ( t=0.589, P=0.559). At last follow-up, the knee joint function was evaluated according to Lysholm scoring standard. And there were 15 cases of excellent, 8 cases of good, and 3 cases of fair, with an excellent and good rate of 88.5% in group A; there were 8 cases of excellent, 7 cases of good, 7 cases of fair, and 2 cases of poor, with an excellent and good rate was 62.5%. The difference between 2 groups was significant ( Z=2.828, P=0.005). The internal fixators were removed after the fracture healed in 2 groups. At last follow-up, no skin irritation of Kirschner wires occurred in group A, but 3 cases in group B. X-ray films reexamination showed that 5 cases of internal fixation failure and no fracture reduction loss were found in group A, while 9 cases of internal fixation failure and 1 case of fracture reduction loss in group B. The incidence of complications in group A was 19.2% (5/26), which was significantly lower than that in group B (54.2%, 13/24) ( χ ²=6.611, P=0.010).

Conclusion

Compared with the traditional Kirschner wire tension band fixation, the improved Kirschner wire tension band fixation in treatment of type C patellar fracture can shorten the operation time, reduce the incidence of complications, and benefit the functional recovery of knee joint.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Patella Fracture With Contoured Dorsal Plating

In this article, we present a novel patella fixation technique using a low-profile highly contoured dorsal mini-fragment locking plate. This procedure is ideally indicated in patients with fracture patterns that are transverse without significant comminution. Long-term clinical studies are being performed to evaluate the effectiveness of this surgical technique.

Patella Fractures: Approach to Treatment

Patellar fracture morphology varies based on the mechanism of injury. Most fractures are either a result of direct impact or through an indirect eccentric extensor contraction injury. Each fracture pattern requires appropriate preoperative planning and individualization of the fixation method. Displaced fractures affect the extension apparatus, and often require surgical fixation. Surgical treatment is recommended in fractures with any of the following features: articular step-off > 2 mm, > 3 mm of fracture displacement, open fractures, and displaced fractures affecting the extensor mechanism. Meticulous handling of the soft-tissue envelope is of the utmost importance, given the patella's tenuous blood supply and limited soft-tissue envelope. Incongruent articular surface can result in detrimental long-term effects; therefore, surgical treatment is directed toward anatomic reduction and fixation. The evolution of patellar fracture fixation continues to maximize options to balance rigid fixation with low-profile fixation constructs. Improving functional outcomes, minimizing soft-tissue irritation, and limiting postoperative complications are possible by using the therapeutic principles of rigid anatomical fixation and meticulous soft-tissue handling.

Functional Outcomes of Patella Fractures Treated With Anterior Plate Osteosynthesis at One Year

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the functional outcomes of patients with displaced patellar fractures treated with anterior plate constructs.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort and retrospective clinical and radiographic assessment.

SETTING

Level I Trauma Center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Between 2014 and 2018, 18 patients who underwent operative intervention for an isolated, displaced patella fracture (OTA/AO 34C1-3) with a minimum of 1-year follow-up agreed to participate in the study. The mean follow-up was 19.5 ± 6.0 months.

INTERVENTION

Patients were treated with 2.4 or 2.7-mm plates and supplemental screws or cerclage wires.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Patients were evaluated with the Short Form-36 Survey and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores and asked about symptomatic implants. The range of motion was assessed by goniometer.

RESULTS

The cohort had no wound complications, infections, nonunion, loss of reduction, or implant failure. Active knee flexion was 131 ± 7 degrees. Five patients (28%) endorsed implant irritation. Only one patient (5.5%) underwent implant removal, which consisted of transverse screw removal alone. Twelve of the 14 patients (86%), who were previously employed, returned to work at 10 ± 7 weeks. All Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores subscale scores and the Short Form-36 Survey scores for physical functioning, limitations due to physical health, limitations due to mental health, and social functioning were significantly lower than reference population norms (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior plating provides reliable fixation for displaced patellar fractures and results in a low incidence of implant irritation. However, patients who had anterior fixation for displaced patella fractures continue to exhibit functional deficits at 1-year postoperatively.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Expanding the indications for calcaneal plates beyond foot fractures: a technical trick and case series

Although non-locking calcaneal plates are designed to treat calcaneal fractures, they present some interesting characteristics that justify using them beyond their current application in fractures of the foot. Calcaneal plates are malleable, have an increased footprint area for fracture containment or buttressing, and present several hole options for screw placement in different trajectories, thereby providing proper fixation even in comminuted fracture patterns. The aim of this study is to describe the unconventional use of calcaneal plates in the orthopaedic trauma scenario.

Contouring Plates in Fracture Surgery: Indications and Pitfalls

Effective fracture surgery requires contouring orthopaedic implants in multiple planes. The amount of force required for contouring is dependent on the amount and type of material contained within the plane to be altered. The type of contouring used depends on the desired plate function; for example, buttress mode often requires some degree of undercontouring, whereas compression plating may require prebending. Other reasons to contour a plate include matching patient anatomy either to maximize fixation options or to reduce implant prominence. Precontoured plates can be convenient and help to facilitate soft-tissue friendly techniques but have the potential to introduce malreduction if the plate position and fit are not carefully monitored.

Miniplate osteosynthesis in fracture surgeries: Case series with review of concepts

PURPOSE

Miniplates were initially developed as targets for foot and hand fractures, but they have been used in the treatment of fixation of small bone fragments, reduction of long bone fractures and non-union treatment, which have been difficult to treat. In this study, the authors used miniplates to treat fractures of the upper extremities, lower extremities, and pelvis obtained good outcomes. Herein, the authors report these good outcomes and review the current concept of miniplates.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-two patients treated with miniplates between March 2012 and March 2017 who attended follow-up for > 1 year were included in this retrospective study. Miniplates were selected according to purpose, which was classified into three categories: fixation, reduction, and stability enhancement. For fixation, miniplates were used to fix distal fibular fractures occurring distal to the syndesmosis and treat patellar and olecranon fractures with severe comminution. For reduction, miniplates were used to reduce the tibia during intramedullary nailing in tibiofibular shaft fractures, while reduction was performed in advance of definitive plating fixation in patients with humeral and pelvic fractures. To enhance stability, the miniplate was inserted after autobone graft for atrophic nonunion at the humeral shaft following nail insertion. The validity of a miniplate was analyzed by reviewing the published literature on the use of miniplates in orthopedic fracture surgeries.

RESULTS

Bony union was achieved in all cases. No specific postoperative complications were observed; however, mild pain and limited range of motion observed in two patients were resolved after implant removal. Sixteen studies on fracture treatment using miniplates reported clinically fair outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Miniplates are not just small metal plates. Depending on the location and treatment of the fracture, the miniplate can effectively fix small bone fragments, help the main plate to maintain the reduction of large bone fragments, and increase the fixation force for nonunion treatment.

Patella fractures treated with cannulated lag screws and fiberwire® have a high union rate and low rate of implant removal

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to report the results of open reduction internal fixation of patella fractures (OTA 34 A-C) using cannulated lag screws and FiberWire® (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) with regard to union and symptomatic implant removal.

DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected database.

SETTING

Urban Level 1 trauma center and Level 2 trauma center METHODS: All displaced intra-articular patella fractures (OTA 34 A-C) treated with ORIF by cannulated lag screws and FiberWire® tension band/cerclage between January 1, 2009 and August 1, 2018. Three hundred and eighty seven consecutive patients were identified. Fifty fractures were included in the final analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENT

All patients were followed to clinical and radiographic union. Nonunion was defined as lack of clinical and radiographic union, fracture displacement, and/or return to OR for revision surgery. Rate of symptomatic implant removal was recorded.

RESULTS

Average age was 57.7 years (range 21-86). Average follow up was 20.6 months (range 6-98 months). Average time to clinical and radiographic union was 3.1 months (range 3-7 months). Four fractures were open. There was a 96% (48/50) rate of primary union, with one patients requiring revision surgery to achieve union, and one developing an asymptomatic radiographic nonunion. The rate of symptomatic implant removal was 8% (4/50). Only 1 of the 4 was operated for a prominent suture knot, and the remaining 3 were for prominent screw removal. Knee range of motion averaged 0.37° extension to 119° flexion (range, 0-150°).

CONCLUSION

Patella fractures can be treated with cannulated lag screws and FiberWire® with a high rate of primary union (96%) and a low rate of symptomatic implant removal (8%). The implant removal rate compares favorably with alternative constructs, with an equivalent rate of fracture union.

Plethora of Traumatic Lesions of Bilateral Knee Extensor Mechanism in Osteogenesis Imperfecta

INTRODUCTION

Injuries to the quadriceps extensor mechanism are rare in patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). To the best of our knowledge, non-union of the patella in OI, either as an isolated problem or in combination with an acute fracture, has not been previously reported.

CASE REPORT

We describe how we surgically approached both the fracture and the non-union simultaneously. The surgical technique and steps are described in detail. Post-operative course was uneventful and the outcome was favorable, with full return of function for the patient.

CONCLUSION

A review of various knee extensor mechanism injuries in OI is described as illustrated in a single patient. The unusual simultaneous surgical treatment of a non-union and an acute fracture in the same patella shows that despite the severely compromised bone in this rare bone disease the bone still has a capacity to heal with a functional outcome.

Hook plating in patella fractures

PURPOSE

Tension band wiring is considered the standard treatment for patella fractures. However, it is limited for fractures with marginal involvement, comminution, and osteoporotic bone. Our experience indicates that these limitations can be overcome with the hook plate. We evaluated the radiographic and clinical outcomes in patients with patella fracture treated with hook plating.

METHODS

We enrolled 30 patients who underwent hook plating for patella fracture at two institutions between 2013 and 2017. Fracture classification and surgical options were reviewed. Postoperative fracture gap and time to union as radiographic measurements, and complications, range of motion, and functional outcome with the Lysholm score as clinical outcomes, were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

Nine fractures were AO/OTA 34A1, three B1, one B2, two C1, nine C2, and six C3. All were closed fractures. There were 3 cases of revision, 4 with lateral or medial marginal fracture, 9 with isolated inferior pole fracture, and 14 with comminuted fracture. The average postoperative fracture gap was 0.4 (range, 0-2.0) mm, and bone union was achieved without additional intervention. The average time to union was 11.6 (range, 7-24) weeks. There were no complications, and no extension lag except in one case (10°). The average flexion was 138.5° (range, 110-145°). For functional outcomes, the average Lysholm score was 89.5 (range, 74-95), with 13 excellent, 14 good, 3 fair, and no poor cases.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that hook plating can result in good bone union and restored knee function in marginal or comminuted fractures of the patella.

A novel three-dimensional strapping reduction for the treatment of patellar fractures

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a three-dimensional strapping reduction in the treatment of patellar fractures.

Methods

Between January 2015 and June 2017, a total of 56 patients were randomly allocated to the three-dimensional strapping reduction group (trial group) and towel clamp reduction group (control group). There were no significant differences in age, gender, injury side, the interval time from injury to surgery, fracture pattern, and cause of injury (P > 0.05). The operation time, fluoroscopy time, bone union time, postoperative Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores, and complications were recorded and analyzed.

Results

All incisions achieved primary union. All patients in both groups completed a follow-up with an average of 12.5 months (range 11–15 months). Both operation time and fluoroscopy time in the trial group were significantly shorter than those in the control group (P < 0.001). All patellar fractures achieved bone union, and there was no significant difference in bone union time between the two groups (P > 0.05). Bone nonunion, infection, and fixation failure were not found in both groups. HSS scores of the trial group (90.9 ± 4.2) were higher than those of the control group (86.6 ± 5.2) (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Compared with towel clamp reduction, the three-dimensional strapping reduction in the treatment of patellar fractures has advantages of shorter operation time and fluoroscopy time, better knee function after surgery, and satisfactory fracture healing.

Miniplate Augmented Tension-Band Wiring for Comminuted Patella Fractures

The aim of this study was to introduce various applications of miniplate augmented tension-band wiring (TBW) for comminuted patella fractures and to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Comminuted articular patella fractures were managed with anterior cortical miniplate fixation with a TBW technique from January 2014 to January 2016. The primary end point was radiographic union. Secondary end points were complications related to the procedure. Functional outcomes including range of motion were also evaluated. Thirty patients were followed up for a mean of 20 months (range, 12-28) postoperatively. The primary union rate was 96% (29 of 30 patients). Mean time to union was 3.2 months. One patient required additional surgery because of acute postoperative infection. Twenty-five patients recovered a full range of motion relative to the contralateral limb. The mean Bostman score at the last follow-up was 28.6 points (range, 26-30). In conclusion, miniplate augmented TBW is a versatile and useful technique for comminuted patella fracture fixation.

Treatment of Patella Fractures

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

Locking compression plate distal ulna hook plate fixation versus intramedullary screw fixation for displaced avulsion fifth Metatarsal Base fractures: a comparative retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Intramedullary screw (IMS) fixation was wildly used in fifth metatarsal base fractures (FMBFs) and the results were satisfactory. However, in the comminuted osteoporosis or small displaced avulsion FMBFs, anatomical reduction and stable fixation could not be achieved with IMS. The Locking Compression Plate (LCP) distal ulna hook plate fixation was a novel alternative fixation method. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to determine if LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation resulted in improved outcomes compared to the traditional IMS fixation in displaced avulsion FMBFs.

METHODS

Of 43 patients with displaced avulsion FMBFs, 18 patients were treated with LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation and 25 were treated with IMS fixation. The patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically and followed up to 12 months. The surgery time, time for hospital stay, time for weight-bearing, time for bony union, time for return to daily life, pain relief, functional outcome and complications after treatment with LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation or IMS fixation were compared. The functional outcome was assessed by the AOFAS (American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society) mid-foot score at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after surgery. Meanwhile, pain scores were obtained at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The two cohorts had similar baseline characteristics. Surgery time was less in LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation cohort compare to IMS fixation cohort (p < 0.0001). Time for partial weight-bearing (p < 0.0001) and full weight-bearing (p < 0.0001) also demonstrated significant improvements in patients with LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation compared to IMS fixation. Patients in the LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation cohort had significantly increased AOFAS at 9 months (p < 0.0001) and 12 months (p < 0.0001) after surgery compared to the IMS fixation cohort.

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective cohort study, LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation as an alternative fixation method was better therapy for the displaced avulsion FMBFs compared to IMS fixation. LCP distal ulna hook plate fixation had a short surgery time and improved functional performance.