In this IRB approved study, we performed a retrospective chart review which identified 49 patients who sustained 49 displaced patella fractures and were treated surgically over a 9 year period (2002-2011); no patients were excluded. Patient demographics, injury pattern and mechanism, and surgical information were extracted from the record. The treating surgeons followed each of their patients at standard intervals. Radiographs and functional data were recorded at these follow-up visits.
A standard surgical technique for suture repair was employed. Two non-absorbable braided sutures were placed in a Krackow type fashion yielding four proximal suture ends. Three longitudinal drill holes were made along the long axis of the patella. Suture ends were passed through the drill holes with a Beath Needle, and following reduction with a tenaculum clamp, tied down over top of the patella. Correction of patella alta and fracture reduction was confirmed using intraoperative image intensification. Post-operatively, all patients were allowed to bear weight in extension while in a knee immobilizer for six weeks. Knee range of motion was limited for six weeks. Radiographs were obtained at standard intervals to assess fracture healing. Lysholm Knee Score and Tegner Activity Scale scores were obtained to objectively quantify knee function and SF-36 was used to assess general well-being. Data were collected at follow up visits.
Figure 1a
Lateral view of patient presenting with an inferior pole patella fracture
Figure 1b
Sutures are woven in Krackow fashion and passed through holes made lengthwise in the patella with a Beath needle
Figure 1c
The sutures are tied down over the top of the patella after reduction
For purpose of comparison, we utilized a control cohort of patients who sustained a mid-pole patella fracture treated with either K-wire or cannulated screws and wire tension band technique. This procedure was performed using a modified AO technique where 18-gauge wire is crossed in a figure-of-eight fashion over the anterior patellar surface and tensioned with knots superiorly. Patients were followed by their treating surgeon and outcomes, including self-reported function and knee range of motion compared to the uninjured side, were recorded. Statistical comparison was made with Fisher's exact test and students paired t-test with a significance threshold set at p = 0.05.
Results
We identified 49 patients who sustained 49 displaced patella fractures that were treated surgically by 2 surgeons over a 9 year period, from 2002 to 2011. This cohort consisted of 31 females (63.3%) and 18 males (36.7%) with an average age of 57.1 years (range 26 - 88 years). Patients had an average BMI of 26.48 (range 19.7 - 44.1). Patients in each surgical intervention cohort had statistically identical BMI and age. The most common cause of injury reported was a low energy fall; one patient was involved in an MVA. Patients were followed clinically at standard intervals and functional outcomes were assessed at one year