Tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture

Abstract

Two adolescent boys sustained a displaced avulsion fracture of the tibial tuberosity. Both were managed operatively, and, given the intra-articular extension of one of them, a minimally invasive approach was undertaken in one of the patients. The other patient also had a subtotal avulsion of the patellar tendon, which necessitated suturing and protection with McLaughlin wiring. In both patients, post-operative recovery was uneventful, with gradual return to their normal activities. Both required removal of the metal work, with no morbidity from this further operation. Displaced avulsion fractures of the tibial tuberosity in adolescents need aggressive operative management, with internal fixation. We advocate that aggressive operative approach is safe, with satisfactory results. ©2001, Editrice Kurtis.