Avulsion of the patellar ligament with combined fracture luxation of the proximal tibial epiphysis: case report and review of the literature.

Abstract

Disruption of the extensor mechanism of the knee joint at the insertion site of the patellar tendon into bone is a somewhat common injury. Avulsion of the patellar ligament associated with fractures of the proximal tibial epiphysis is an extremely rare injury. Only three cases have been published in association with avulsion fracture of the tibial tubercle. We are reporting a case that has previously not been reported to our knowledge: an avulsion of the ligament in a closed fracture of the proximal tibial epiphysis with integrity of the tibial tubercle. We propose a three-type classification of an avulsion patellar ligament injury.