Comminuted inferior pole fracture of patella can be successfully treated with rim-plate-augmented separate vertical...

We present the surgical technique of rim-plate-augmented separate vertical wiring for comminuted inferior pole fracture of the patella and report the clinical outcomes.

Between July 2013 and January 2016, 13 patients (7 male and 6 female) who were diagnosed with comminuted inferior pole fracture of the patella in preoperative computed tomography and underwent a minimum of 1 year of follow-up were enrolled in this study. Mean patient age was 57.7 years (range 28-72 years). All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation by rim-plate-augmented separate vertical wiring. Bony union, complications, range of motion and Bostman score were the clinical outcomes.

Bony union was achieved in all cases at an average of 10 weeks after surgery (range 8-12). There was no loss of reduction and fixative failure during follow-up. The average range of motion was 127° (range 120°-130°). The mean Bostman score at last follow-up was 29.6 points (range 27-30) and graded excellent in 12 patients.

Rim-plate-augmented separate vertical wiring demonstrated secure fixation and favorable clinical outcomes. This study provides evidence for its effectiveness as a fixation method for treating displaced, comminuted inferior pole fracture of the patella.