Treatment of Patellar Fracture With Kirschner Wire Tension Band With Absorbable Sutures

Abstract Study designRetrospective cohort studyObjectiveTension band wiring is considered the standard treatment for patella fractures. However, it is limited for fractures with marginal involvement, comminution, and osteoporotic bone. Our experience indicates that these limitations can be overcome with the technique of Kirschner wire combined with absorbable suture. We evaluated the radiographic and clinical outcomes in patients with patella fracture treated with this new technology.MethodsWe enrolled 32 patients who underwent the new technology for patella fracture at our hospital between 2018 and 2019. Fracture classification and surgical options were reviewed. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Levack score system, WOMAC test form of pain, stiffness and function, and knee joint range of motion (ROM) were applied for functional evaluation.Results32 patients were followed up for an average follow-up time of 13 months (11 to 24 months). All fractures were unioned, no wound infection, Kirschner wire exposure and second displacement of fracture fragment was found. None of the patients had knee stiffness, and the range of motion of the knee was 125.6° (110-135). The average NRS for knee pain was 7.5 (6-9) preinjury and 0.5 (0-2) at the last follow-up. Knee joint function recovered well, excellent and good rate was 93.75% (30/32). The average Levack score was 10.0 (6-12), which included twenty evaluations of “excellent” and twelve of “good”. WOMAC averaged 22.5 (14 - 38).ConclusionThe combination of Kirschner wire and absorbable suture for patella fractures is simple and clinically satisfactory, restores knee function well, and is a worthy orthopedic method.