Netzwerkpartner Arbeitstherapeut im Rehabilitationsmanagement

Due to the functional importance of the patella, accurate reduction and rigid fixation of patellar fractures are required. Tension band wiring has long been the standard treatment of these fractures, but there are several problems associated with this technique, e.g. loosening of the wires, fracture dislocation and poor outcome. Another possibility in the treatment of transverse patellar fractures is screw fixation. Although this technique ensures stable osteosynthesis, anatomical reduction is often problematic, especially in comminuted fractures. A good option in the treatment of (comminuted) patellar fractures is the newly designed locking patella plate, which combines anatomical reduction and stable osteosynthesis. In biomechanical tests the plate provided a more stable fixation of the patellar fracture and showed higher mechanical strength compared to classic tension band wiring. The first clinical applications achieved optimal fracture reduction. No complications have occurred to date following the use of the plate. Thus the patella plate represents a good option in the treatment of patellar fractures.