RESUMEN
Objective To compare cable tension band fixation with other 3 fixations in terms of biomechanical stability for tibial avulsion fractures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).Methods Eighty fresh porcine knees were randomized into 4 equal groups (n =20).For each knee,all the soft tissues were removed only to keep the femur-ACL-tibia complex.The knee complexes were used to create fracture models of standard Meyers-Mc Keever type Ⅲ at the ACL attachment region using a swing saw.The fracture fragments in the 4 groups were subjected to fixation respectively with intramedullary lag screws,high-strength suture,tension band wire and cable tension band.All the specimens were subsequently tested on a Material Testing Machine at a load rate of 60 mm/mm.The 4 groups were compared in terms of ultimate failure load,yield load,and fragmental displacement under single-cycle loading and multi-cyclic loadings.Results Cable tension band fixation displayed significantly higher ultimate failure,higher yield load and lower fragmental displacement than all the other 3 fixations (P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion As cable tension band fixation,which is convenient and economical,provides better biomechanical stability than other 3 fixations for tibial avulsion fractures of the ACL,it may allow earlier functional and weight-bearing exercise after operation.