Tibial spine avulsion fractures mostly
occur in adolescents and young adults. Displaced
fractures lead to non-union and increased knee
instability which need surgical intervention for optimal
functional outcomes. We conducted this prospective
study to evaluate functional results obtained after open
reduction with endo-button fixation via minimal incision
in tibial spine avulsion fractures. Open procedure was
performed to prove that even without arthroscopic
methods, fixation of tibial spine can be done with
comparable results.
Introduction: Displaced tibial eminence avulsion
fractures warrants a surgical intervention. Newer studies
have indicated the superiority of arthroscopic fixation
over other surgical options but the management of
patients falling under low socioeconomic status is a
different challenge for treatment altogether because of
lack of resources, arthroscopic trained personnel and
equipments and economic constraints. In our study, we
describe a new technique of fixation using intraarticular
button (Endobutton) and polyester 5 (#5 Ethibond) in a
peculiar fashion.
Aim: To describe the technique and to evaluate its
outcome. We aimed to determine whether this fixation
method could be an optimal alternative to address this
fracture in such circumstances.
Materials and methods: The prospective study included
35 patients having tibial spine avulsion fractures
referred to a tertiary health care centre in South
Rajasthan were selected for this study. Classification of
anterior tibial spine (ACL avulsion) a fracture done by
Meyer and Mckeever. Patients having Meyer and
McKeever type 3 and 4 were included in the study.
Functional and clinical outcome measured with Lysholm
knee score at final follow up.
Results: We had excellent results in 23 cases (65.71%),
good in 12 cases (34.28%) according to the Lysholm
score. Bony union was achieved in all patients within 3
months. All patients had a complete functional recovery
and were able to return to work and to resume their
activities after 6 weeks and 3 months respectively. At
final follow up, the mean Lysholm score was 94.2±4.2.
Conclusion: The study suggested that this is a simple and
effective technique with acceptable results. The study
also indicates that our technique has the potential to be
an optimal alternative to address this fracture in the said
population. Further, it should intrigue surgeons with
limited orthopaedics setup and instrumentation to
further evaluate and adapt the technique.