[Immobilization of the fractured patella by an embracing ring device]

48 cases of fractured patella treated by embracing ring device from 1976-1988 were reported. Among the group, there were 31 males and 17 females, aged 20-80 years. The types of fractures were transverse 28 cases, comminuted 8 cases, fissure or stellate 12 cases; closed 43 cases, opened 5 cases. The methods were adopted, namely: (1) Simple immobilization with embracing ring device. (2) Cylinder plaster cast combined with embracing ring device. (3) Open-reduction with internal fixation combined with embracing ring device. According to the holistic concept the authors adopted both external and topical application of paste to relieve local swelling and oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine. After bone-union the embracing ring device was removed in conjunction with external lotion and active exercises. The 48 cases were followed up ranging from 5 months to 6 years. Satisfactory results were obtained in 41 cases (85.42%). Finally the authors emphasized that the preservation of patella plays an important role in maintaining the extensor mechanism of the knee from physiological and biomechanic views, if the articular surface can be perfectly restored. The nature of embracing ring device and related problems were also discussed.