Avulsion fractures of the tibial tuberosity in the adolescent athlete. Risk factors, mechanism of injury, and treatment.
Based on a review of the literature and our study of six cases, we investigated avulsion fractures of the tibial tuberosity in the athletic adolescent. A study of the mechanism of this acute injury helps to explain the different types of avulsion fractures of the tibial tuberosity. An understanding of predisposing factors and the biomechanical conditions leading to this injury may help identify those young athletes at the highest risk and may help the surgeon determine the most effective treatment for such a fracture. No complications were experienced by the patients in our study. Displaced fractures underwent open reduction and fixation with screws. This method shortens the period during which athletic activities are restricted.
Mirbey
J
J
Department of Orthopaedics-Traumatology, Centre Hospitalier Jean Minjoz, Besancon, France.
Besancenot
J
J
Chambers
R T
RT
Durey
A
A
Vichard
P
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000295:Adolescent Medicine; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D012307:Risk Factors; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D014142:Track and Field