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Knee fractures in the athlete
Srino Bharam1, Mark S Vrahas, Freddie H Fu
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School/Mass General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA. srinob@hotmail.com
The Orthopedic Clinics of North America
|December 18, 2002
Summary
This article outlines guidelines for managing sports-related knee fractures, emphasizing anatomic reduction for optimal function and healing. Early motion and appropriate implant selection are key for athletes to return to competition successfully.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Traumatology
Background:
- Sports participation carries a risk of knee fractures, though uncommon.
- Effective management is crucial for athletes' return to play.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a guideline for assessing and managing sports-related knee fractures.
- To optimize outcomes for athletes returning to sports-specific competition.
Main Methods:
- Emphasis on anatomic fracture reduction.
- Consideration of fracture stability for early joint motion.
- Selection of low-profile implants to prevent complications.
Main Results:
- Anatomic reduction is necessary for optimal knee function and stability.
- Early motion promotes bone healing and helps avoid traumatic arthritis.
- Careful implant selection minimizes soft tissue irritation and aids return to activity.
Conclusions:
- Successful management of acute knee injuries requires precise assessment and treatment.
- Achieving optimal joint function and stability is paramount for injured athletes.
- Surgical considerations, including implant choice, directly impact an athlete's ability to return to competition.