[Augmentation of patella fractures and patella tendon ruptures with the McLaughlin-Cerclage]

Augmentation of patella injuries was first described in 1946 by H.F. McLaughlin. We retrospectively analyzed 14 patients with patella fracture or patella tendon rupture who had been augmented with McLaughlin wiring between 1998 and 2004. The Insall-Salvati ratio was determined before and after removing the cerclage wire as well as on the opposite knee to assess the patella position; in addition the degree of retropatellar arthritis was determined. The functional results were ascertained by Larson and OAK score. McLaughlin wiring influenced the patella position in two patients. Most of the patients achieved a good or very good functional result (mean Larson score 82.39, mean OAK score 82.79). In six patients (42.86%) the degree of retropatellar arthritis was higher than in the opposite knee. Three patients (21.43%) needed secondary arthrolysis at the time of removal of the cerclage. Arthritis and functional results were worse in patients with complex knee trauma. Therefore augmentation with the McLaughlin cerclage in combination with standardized postoperative after treatment is a sufficient therapy of patella fractures and patella tendon ruptures.