Clinical analysis of an anchor nail combined with a titanium cable in the treatment of lower patella fractures

Abstract

Objective This study was performed to evaluate the clinical effect of an anchor nail and titanium cable for lower patella fractures and identify an effective treatment. Methods Thirty-five patients with lower patella fractures were treated using anchor nail and titanium cable technology. The anchor was fixed to the main part of the patella; the lower patella was then fixed. A bone tunnel was created, and the titanium cable was fixed. The fracture was allowed to heal without tension. Postoperative radiographs were obtained at regular follow-up evaluations. The Böstman function scores were used to assess postoperative complications. Results All patients were followed for an average of 15 months. The fracture healing time ranged from 12 to 24 weeks. The postoperative Böstman function scores were as follows: average, 28.6 points; excellent and good scores in 28 and 7 patients, respectively (100% rate of excellent and good scores). At 6 and 12 months postoperatively, the maximum degree of active extension of the affected knee joint was comparable with that of the healthy contralateral joint. Conclusion The combination of an anchor nail and titanium cable for lower patella fractures is simple and clinically satisfactory, restores knee function well, and is a worthy orthopedic method.