Arthroscopic absorbable suture fixation for tibial spine fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Arthroscopy

Background:

• Tibial spine avulsion fractures, particularly types III and IV, often require surgical intervention.
• Traditional fixation methods can be complex and carry risks such as fragment comminution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a modified arthroscopic suture fixation technique for tibial spine avulsion fractures.
• To assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes of this technique at 2-year follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Arthroscopic suture fixation was performed on 21 patients with tibial spine avulsion fractures.
• The technique involves fixation within the anterior cruciate ligament substance, not on the bone fragment.
• Patients were evaluated clinically and biomechanically at 2 years.

Main Results:

• Optimal clinical and radiographic outcomes were observed at 2-year follow-up.
• The technique provided secure fixation, reduced comminution risk, and eliminated hardware removal.
• Restoration of anterior cruciate ligament length and integrity was achieved.

Conclusions:

• This modified arthroscopic technique offers a simplified, reproducible, and cost-effective method for treating tibial spine avulsions.
• It provides secure fixation and favorable outcomes, especially for type III and IV fractures.
• The technique is suitable for various patient populations, including young athletes.