Adjunct neutralization plating in patella fracture fixation: a technical trick.

Abstract

Patella fracture outcomes are positive overall; however, in some cases, traditional fixation methods result in complications, including loss of fixation and irritable hardware requiring removal. We present a technique of plate fixation that we believe has the potential to improve stability and is less offensive in more comminuted fracture patterns. Improved stability should allow unfettered advancement of rehabilitation without concern for loss of fixation. Lower profile fixation offers a potential for diminishing the presence of irritating hardware requiring removal. We present our technique for using plate fixation to augment more complex patella fracture patterns.