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[Mid-term clinical and MRI results after refixation of osteochondral fractures with resorbable implants]
M M Wachowski1, T Floerkemeier, P Balcarek
1Abteilung für Unfallchirurgie, Plastische und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen. martin.wachowski@web
Aim:
Refixation of osteochondral fractures with resorbable implants is a common surgical treatment. There are almost no studies that prove good clinical outcomes. Hence, the aim of the study was to evaluate the mid-term results after refixation of osteochondral fractures.
Methods:
The results of 12 patients were recorded 6.5 (±1) years after refixation of osteochondral fractures measuring 3.4 cm (2) (±2.5) of the knee (8 ×) or the ankle joint (4 ×) with resorbable inplants. Clinical scores and a modified MRI score based on that of Henderson et al. were used.
Results:
The clinical scores showed good to excellent results after 6.5 (±1) years (VAS pain: 1.9 [±2.4], Tegner: 5.0 [±1.7], Lysholm: 84.8 [±14.3], McDermott: 91.3 [±7.9], Knee Society: 189.4 [±12.1]). MRI showed with one exception good integration of the fractures. In 3 cases subchondral cysts could be found. In 7 cases changes in the chondral outline occurred. The effect of this was a modified Henderson score of 12.6 (±3.7). The MRI results did not correlate with the clinical outcome.
Conclusion:
Because of its good clinical results the refixation with resorbable implants can be recommended to treat osteochondral fractures.
