Outcome Analysis of Fixed angle Locking Plate in Comminuted Patella Fractures: A Single-center Prospective study from South India with Early Results

Introduction: Comminuted patella fractures pose a challenge to orthopedic surgeons since tension band wiring and cerclage are not effective and often lead to loosening of wires, hardware problems, dislocation of fracture, and failure of osteosynthesis resulting in post-traumatic osteoarthritis and knee stiffness. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcome in patients with AO 34C2 and 34C3 highly comminuted patella fractures treated with a unidirectional fixed-angle titanium patella locking plate. Materials and Methods: Twelve patients who presented with AO 34C2 and 34C3 comminuted patella fractures, aged between 18 and 79 years were included in the study. All fractures were reduced and fixed with a unidirectional angle fixed stable titanium patella locking plate. Knee range of motion and knee outcome survey activities of daily living scale were used to evaluate the outcome. Results: Union of fracture was achieved in all 12 patients. The mean flexion at the final follow-up was 123° (110°–130°). None of the patients had extensor lag. One patient had hardware irritation which resolved at final follow-up. Conclusion: This technique serves as an effective option in highly comminuted patella fractures by providing excellent mechanical stability resulting in anatomical reduction, excellent functional outcome, and lower incidence of hardware irritation or failure of osteosynthesis. Keywords: Patella fracture, comminuted, locking plate, osteosynthesis, patellectomy.