Fracture of the tibial tubercle

Tibial tubercle fractures are uncommon and rarely occur after closure of the proximal tibial epiphysis. A study of 15 such injuries, all unilateral, showed the age range to be from 12 to 16 years. All injuries were sustained during athletic activities or vigorous play. All of the 15 injuries were treated by open reduction and internal fixation, followed by plaster immobilization for approximately 6 weeks. No early complications occurred, and no later deformities, such as genu recurvatum as reported by Blout, were detected. All patients returned to normal activity including in some cases, varsity athletics.