Treatment of Displaced Transverse Patellar Fractures with Cannulated Screws and Figure-Eight Wiring

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the radiographic and clinical results of displaced transverse patellar fractures using a tensioned anterior figure-eight wire placed through two cannulated screws MATERIALS AND METHODS: 9 patients with displaced transverse patellar fractures treated with cannulated screws and figure-eight wiring were analyzed retrospectively. The mean age was 53 years (range, 22 to 68 years). Controlled passive range of motion exercise were started on the first postoperative day. Full weight bearing was allowed as tolerated. The patients were evaluated with radiographs, clinical examination and Levack's scoring system. RESULTS: All fractures healed and mean time elapsed for union was 9.4 weeks (range, 8 to 12 weeks). All patients regained full knee range of motion. Clinical results according to the Levack's scoring system were excellent in 8 cases and good in 1 case. We found no complications like loss of reduction and soft tissue irritation caused by the wire and screw, loosening or migration of hardware. CONCLUSION: Anterior figure-eight wiring through paired cannulated screws is appropriate for transverse patellar fractures, is possible early knee motion exercise and weight bearing.