title: Modified tension band technique for patella fractures.
abstract: The use of tension band wire technique for patella fractures fixation is a well-established technique. However, the standard technique, which involves using two Kirschner wires through the patella, can cause problems with prominent hardware, and difficulty capturing the change to figure of eight wire. Here we describe a modified technique using four Kirschner wires, which allows each wire to be bent, and well-impacted in order to avoid these problems. The basic surgical technique, and our case series are reviewed.
authors.affiliation: University of British Columbia, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 110-828 West 10th Ave, V5Z 1L8, Vancouver, BC, Canada. kelly.lefaivre@vch.ca
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Lefaivre
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: O'Brien
authors.forename: H M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Broekhuyse
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Guy
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Blachut
mesh_terms: D001863:Bone Screws; D001864:Bone Wires; D020878:Device Removal; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D005599:Fractures, Ununited / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D010329:Patella / Q000293:injuries*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000601:surgery; D012086:Reoperation