Treating patella fractures with a fixed-angle patella plate-A prospective observational study
Michael Wild1, Kai Fischer1, Florian Hilsenbeck1
1Klinikum Darmstadt, Department of Orthopedics, Trauma and Hand Surgery, Grafenstr. 9, D-64283 Darmstadt, Germany.
Injury
|June 30, 2016
Summary
A new fixed-angle patella plate offers an effective and safe treatment for patella fractures, showing good clinical outcomes. This surgical option presents a short learning curve for surgeons treating these complex bone injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Anterior tension wiring with Kirschner wires (K-wires) is the standard for patella fractures but has a high complication rate.
- A novel bilateral, polyaxial, fixed-angle 2.7mm patella plate has been developed to potentially improve outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate intra- and perioperative complications of the new fixed-angle patella plate.
- To assess the clinical outcomes of patella fractures treated with this new implant.
Main Methods:
- Prospective clinical study of 20 patella fractures in 19 patients treated with the fixed-angle plate (2011-2014).
- Exclusion of avulsion fractures; classification using AO/OTA system.
- 12-month follow-up for complications and fracture healing; comprehensive knee scoring at one year.
Main Results:
- Two complications occurred in 12 months: superficial wound infection and fracture dislocation due to implant failure.
- Complete bony healing achieved in all fractures by an average of 3.2 months postoperatively.
- All knee scores indicated good to excellent clinical results at one year.
Conclusions:
- The fixed-angle patella plate is effective and safe for patella fractures, with a short learning curve.
- Careful consideration is advised for treating comminuted patella fractures (C3) to respect biomechanical properties and indications.
