Arthroscopic Fixation of Anterior Tibial Spine Fractures with Bioabsorbable Nails in Skeletally Immature Patients

BackgroundA number of arthroscopic techniques have been introduced in the treatment of displaced anterior tibial spine fractures. Several of the procedures are technically demanding or include a second removal operation of metallic implants.PurposeThe purpose of this study is to describe and evaluate an arthroscopic technique using bioabsorbable nails in displaced anterior tibial spine fractures.Study DesignCase series; Level of evidence, 4.MethodsSixteen consecutive patients, aged 7 to 15 years, with anterior tibial spine fractures type II and III according to Meyers and McKeever, were treated with arthroscopic fixation of the fragment using bioabsorbable nails. After 2 to 5 years, 13 of the patients were evaluated with regard to anterior knee laxity, range of motion, hop tests, Lysholm knee scoring scale, and activity level. Postoperative surgical complications were registered in the whole group of patients.ResultsOne of the 13 patients had an increased anterior knee laxity of 3 mm. Extension deficits of 5° were seen in 4 patients and flexion deficits of 5° to 10° in 3 patients. One patient had an outcome of ConclusionThe outcome is comparable with other procedures. A second operation for removal of metallic implants is avoided.