Avulsion Fracture of the Tibial Tuberosity in Adolescents: A Rare Case and Surgical Fixation Technique

Farzad Amouzadeh Omrani; Kourosh Kharkan Ghamsari; Mojtaba Baroutkoub; Sina Afzal; Saeed Kokly

doi:10.18502/jost.v10i1.14970

Farzad Amouzadeh Omrani Associate Professor, Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Kourosh Kharkan Ghamsari Orthopedic Surgeon, Joint, Bone, Connective tissue, and Rheumatology Research Center (JBCRC), Department of Orthopedics, 5th Azar Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
Mojtaba Baroutkoub Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Sina Afzal Orthopedic Surgeon, Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Saeed Kokly Assistant Professor, Joint, Bone, Connective tissue, and Rheumatology Research Center (JBCRC), Department of Orthopedics, 5th Azar Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jost.v10i1.14970

Keywords: Knee Fractures; Avulsion Fracture; Knee; Internal Fixation; Sports

Abstract

Background: Only 3% of all proximal tibial fractures result in an avulsion fracture of the tibial tuberosity. It is often seen in youngsters between the ages of 3 and 6 and is less frequent after puberty.

Case Report: A 15-year-old boy was presented with severe left knee pain following a high jump. X-ray and computed tomography (CT) scan showed a tibial tuberosity fracture with joint surface involvement. The damaged part was fixed with a 4.5mm cannulated screw and washer, reinforced with 2 SwiveLock anchors. In the sixth week, full weight bearing and full range of motion (ROM) were obtained.

Conclusion: The primary objective in managing tibial tubercle fractures is the restoration of both the extensor mechanism and the integrity of the joint surface in cases where they have been compromised.