Application of circular external fixator under arthroscopic control in comminuted patella XXXX : technique and early results.

@entity1 @entity9256 @entity75 @entity174
BACKGROUND: Comminuted @entity174 are traditionally treated by internal fixation. The modified tension-band technique is widely accepted for internal fixation. The management of comminuted @entity174 often requires additional K-wire and/or circlage material and wide surgical exposure. Therefore, symptoms and complications related to the stainless steel wire are not uncommon in these cases. We present a new alternative treatment technique for @entity9256 . METHODS: Five @entity9256 of four @entity1 were treated by circular external fixator (CEF) under arthroscopic control. The mean @entity1 age was 32.5 (range 24-41) years and mean follow-up was 22 (range 20-28) months. RESULTS: In four cases, union was completed by the sixth week; in the other case, union was completed by the eighth week. The frames were removed after union of the @entity174 was documented. When the CEF was removed, full knee range of motion was observed full in all @entity1 , and the @entity1 returned to their normal activities of living in a few days. The mean Lysholm score was 94 (range 85-100) after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: CEF application under arthroscopic control can help avoid some complications of the traditional treatment methods, particularly in comminuted @entity174 . The most important advantage of this technique is to allow active knee motion in the early postoperative period so @entity1 can return to activity of daily living soon after the implant removal. In addition, arthroscopic examination of the knee joint provides an assessment of any other @entity75 . This technique allows healing of the @entity174 with low morbidity.
