Open Reduction and Orthogonal Tension Band Plating of an Isolated Periprosthetic Tibial Tubercle Fracture: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2024 Dec 20;14(4). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.24.00322. eCollection 2024 Oct 1.

Abstract

Case: A 67-year-old woman sustained a periprosthetic tibial tubercle avulsion fracture with extensor mechanism disruption. She underwent open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with orthogonal mini-fragment plates applied in a tension band fashion with patellar tendon suture augmentation. Radiographs, range of motion, and patient-reported outcomes were completed over 1 year.

Conclusion: Isolated periprosthetic tibial tubercle fractures with disruption of the extensor mechanism can be treated with ORIF using orthogonal tension band plating. At 1-year follow-up, the surgical technique described in this report yielded radiographic union, clinical restoration of preinjury motion, and excellent patient-reported outcomes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bone Plates*
  • Female
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal / instrumentation
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal / methods
  • Humans
  • Open Fracture Reduction / methods
  • Periprosthetic Fractures* / diagnostic imaging
  • Periprosthetic Fractures* / surgery
  • Tibial Fractures* / diagnostic imaging
  • Tibial Fractures* / surgery