Self-locking tension band technique. A new perspective in tension band wiring

After experiencing some complications with the AO modified tension band technique, we have made a small modification to prevent proximal migration of the Kirschner wires. In this modification, the proximal ends of the wires are bent to form a loop and the cerclage wire passed through them. In this way, Kirschner wires and cerclage wire lock each other, preventing migration. We have treated 51 patients with this technique, including 22 transverse patellar, 11 olecranon, 3 medial and 5 lateral malleolar fractures, 3 acromioclavicular separations, 4 olecranon chevron osteotomy fixations and 3 trochanter major fixations. Fracture union occurred in 8 weeks (mean). We did not see any postoperative complications or implant failures. Rigid fixation allows early mobilization which quickly restores functional status.