Outcome Analysis of Fixed Angle Locking Plate in Patella Fractures: A Single Centre Experience from North India

Tension band wiring supposedly is the most commonly used technique for displaced patella fractures, but is not effective in comminuted fractures and osteoporotic bones. It often leads to loosening of wires, dislocation of fracture, hardware problem and failure of osteosynthesis, resulting in knee stiffness and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The aim of the study is to evaluate clinical outcome in patients with acute patella fractures (< 3 week) treated with unidirectional angle fixed low-profile titanium patella locking plate.

Twenty patients who presented with displaced patella fractures, aged between 18-70 years were included in the study. All fractures were reduced and fixed with unidirectional angle fixed stable low-profile titanium patella locking plate. Knee Range of motion and Knee Outcome Survey Activities of Daily Living Scale (KOS-ADL) was used to evaluate the outcome.

We were able to achieve union in 19 out of 20 patients. One patient with comminuted patella fracture had failure of fixation, which was revised. Mean flexion at final follow-up was 124° (110°-130°) and none of the patients had extensor lag. The final radiograph revealed complete union in all patients.

This technique offers an option of fixation in comminuted patella fracture and in osteoporotic individuals. It provides mechanical stability for fracture fixation resulting in anatomical reduction, good functional outcome, lower incidence of symptomatic implant or failure of osteosynthesis.