Patella fractures treated with suture tension band fixation

BACKGROUND: Patella fractures requiring surgery are traditionally treated using metallic implants, which are associated with high re-operation rates, mainly due to implant prominence. To overcome the problem of prominent metallic implants, we present a technique based purely on braided sutures.

METHODS: This technique is described in a step-wise, standardised way based on our findings on six patients treated at our institution.

RESULTS: This technique can be adapted to all types of patella fractures. The described suture configuration allows maintenance of inter-fragmentary reduction until bony union without symptoms from the suture material.

CONCLUSIONS: We believe that this technique is a safe and promising alternative to traditional metallic fixation methods.