RESUMO
Objective To introduce a new technique of treating tibial spinal fractures in children under arthroscope, and to assess its clinical outcomes. Methods From February 2001 to July 2003, 6 child patients with tibial spinal fracture were treated arthroscopically. The reduction and fixation were completed under the arthroscope. The wire was linked with the suture outside the joint, and then was pulled into the joint to fix the fracture fragment through the fundus of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Results The patients were followed up for 6 to 20 months. All the fractures healed without displacement 4 weeks after operation. 3 months postoperatively, the motion range of the knee returned to normal, and no knee instability was observed. The results of ADT (anterior drawer test) and Lachmanns sign were negative. Conclusion This technique is the first choice in treatment of tibial spinal fracture in children, because it facilitates the diagnosis and treatment of complicated knee problems and provides accurate reduction and reliable fixation. Besides, it is minimally invasive, simple and convenient.