Abstract
Introduction
Although tension band wiring fixation of patellar fracture has been the most widely used technique, the metal implants related complications including implant loosening, postoperative pain are very common and additional surgeries are often necessary.
Hypothesis
A totally metal free technique of transosseous suturing method could outperform the traditional fixation technique.
Materials & Methods
A total of 25 patients (mean age of 59.60 years) with displaced patellar fracture treated by transosseous suturing technique were compared with a 1:1 matched historical control group who underwent modified tension band wiring fixation of patellar fracture. Union time, union rate, operation time, number of procedures, mean hospitalization days and the complications were compared between cases and controls.
Results
Union time (8.43 ±2.92 weeks versus 8.64 ±2.82 weeks) and operation time (69.00 ±19.31 versus 64.89 ±14.27 minutes) were not different between two groups. Mean hospitalization days (4.04 ±1.40 versus 5.76 ±1.50 days; P < 0.001), number of procedures and the frequency of complications were significantly lower among transosseous suturing group (P< 0.001).
Conclusions
Transosseous suturing technique is safe and effective in the transverse or comminuted fractures of patella. The complication rate is significantly lower than that of conventional tension band wiring technique.
