Internal fixation of cruciate ligament avulsion fractures with metallic implants

Abstract

Background: Tibial spine anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) avulsion injuries are uncommon injuries and are less accompanied with tear or rupture of ligaments. Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsions are significantly associated with concomitant injuries. Methods: Thirteen patients with tibial avulsion fractures were studied (7 with anterior cruciate and 6 with posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures). All patients were operated with open reduction and internal fixation with metallic stainless steel or titanium implants and were followed up for 12-24 months. Functional and clinical outcomes were observed with Lysholm knee score and GH SF36 score at 6 months, 1 year and at final visit. Results: Mean radiological union was 11.6 weeks in both cruciate avulsion fractures. Of the 13 cases, 11 were treated with cannulated screws and 2 were treated with 3.5 mm stainless steel plate. We had observed mean motion of knee to be 131.42° in ACL avulsion fractures and 143.33° in PCL avulsion fractures. Mean Lysholm score at final visit was 87.38 and mean SF36 general health score was 85.41. Conclusion: In regards of cruciate ligaments tibial avulsion fractures, metallic implants are coveted choice of fixation with charismatic experience of learning and expertise. Metallic implants impose a definite functional outcome with sure and reliable union rate and secure activity of daily living without any implant related adverse issues.

Keywords

• anterior cruciate ligament
• lysholm score
• metallic implant
• posterior cruciate ligament
• sf-36 score
• tibial fracture avulsion