Patella Fracture Open Reduction Internal Fixation

Austin Fares, MD

Content Contributor

Evolution of Patella Fracture Open Reduction Internal Fixation

Given the high complication rate with metal wires, alternative methods of fixation were developed. Included among these was the advent of dense and durable sutures which function in a similar fashion as the metal wires. The theoretical benefits of this technique is that patient’s will have less painful hardware and decreased need for revision surgeries compared to wire fixation. Ultimately, this culminates to better patient outcomes. In addition, hybrid methods to fix the patella exist where screws are used to fix the fracture and then suture material is used to further reinforce and stabilize the fracture.

Technology Spotlight

Arthrex™ Patella Fracture System with FiberTape® Tension Band Reinforcement

The Arthrex FiberTape® is an ultrahigh strength, 2 mm wide suture tape used for a variety of orthopaedic procedures. The suture tape provides broad compression and increased tissue cutthrough resistance making it an excellent choice in areas where tissue pull-through may be a concern. Particularly when this FiberTape® is used in combination with cannulated screws (hollow bone screws) it performs with the biomechanical strength superior to most other fixation methods.