Results of Tension Band Wiring and Additional Circumferential Wiring in Treatment of Comminuted Patella Fracture

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of tension band wiring and additional circumferential wiring in treatment of comminuted patella fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of 67 patients with follow-up period longer than six months who underwent tension band wiring and additional circumferential wiring for comminuted patellar fracture from January 2004 to December 2012 was conducted. Analysis was based on radiological evaluation of bony union and articular surface displacement, and clinically by evaluating the postoperative function of the knee joint using the Levack scoring system. RESULTS: Only one case out of 67 (1.5%) showed nonunion without metal breakage while good bone union was achieved in all other cases. Excluding the nonunion case, range of motion was 90 degrees minimum, 135 maximum, 129 on average. Average displacement was less than 2 mm, and 64 out of 67 cases showed satisfactory outcome with excellent functional score according to the Levack scoring system. CONCLUSION: Tension band wiring and additional circumferential wiring technique for treatment of comminuted patella fractures can be considered as an effective treatment for achievement of good bone union and restoration of normal knee function.