Endobutton technique for dynamic fixation of traumatic symphysis pubis disruption

Plate fixation, the conventional treatment for traumatic symphysis pubis disruption, carries the risk of implant failure and demands extensive exposure. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the outcome of dynamic fixation with the Endobutton CL, which has a long successful record in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions. Twenty-one APC-II injuries were treated from January 2006 to December 2009. The mean duration of follow-up was 23 months (18 to 26). All patients received Endobutton fixation. The incision length was 6.8 +/- 13 cm. The external blood loss was 106 +/- 15 mL. The average surgical time was 63 +/- 12 min. The symphysis distance after reduction was 4.1 +/- 1.2 mm. The symphysis distance at final visit was 4.2 +/- 1.2 mm. Loss of reduction was not significant during bone healing (p = 0.09). The Majeed scoring was excellent in 15 patients, good in 5 patients and fair in 1 patient. One malreduction was seen; there was no implant failure. Our results indicate that Endobutton fixation of the pubic symphysis might be used in the treatment of APC-II injuries.