"Net cage" technique in the treatment of inferior pole patella fracture: a novel patella internal fixation technique
Abstract Objective Fractures of the inferior pole of the patella can cause the knee joint extensor mechanism disorder. The fracture fragments are usually small and comminuted. Therefore, there are certain difficulties in fixation. The purpose of this study is to observe the effect of the "Net cage" technique in the treatment of the inferior pole of the patella. Methods This is a retrospective study that included 16 cases of inferior patella fractures (AO/OTA 34-A1) who underwent the "Net cage" technique from March 2017 to June 2020. Collecting their medical records and follow-up results, measuring indicators include the surgical complications of the fixation method, knee joint function, the number of fluoroscopies, fracture healing, and the incidence of soft tissue stimulation. Results The fractures of all patients healed smoothly, and there were no complications such as failure of internal fixation and fracture of implants. The average number of intraoperative fluoroscopy was 5.56 times (range: 4-10 times); the average fracture healing time was 10.5 weeks (range: 8-14 weeks) ). No patients reported internal fixation-related soft tissue irritation. At the last follow-up, the knee function showed that the average ROM was 133.75° (range: 120°~140°); The average Bostman score was 27.94 points (range: 24-30 points). Conclusion "Net cage" technology for the treatment of inferior pole fractures of the patella has the advantages of reduced fluoroscopy, fixation and stability, early functional exercise, and better knee joints after surgery.