title: A Novel Surgical Technique for Patellar Fracture: Application of Extra-articular Arthroscopy With Hanger-Lifting Procedure.
abstract: We describe a novel operative technique for patellar fracture. The patient is placed in the supine position for setup of both an image intensifier and arthroscopy. After routine intra-articular inspection with an arthroscope, an extra-articular space including the prepatellar bursa is developed. The space is created with a lifting hanger applied from a portal wherein an arthroscope can then afford both intra- and extra-articular observation of the articular and bony surface of the patella. By use of an image intensifier, the fracture can be treated and fixed in percutaneous fashion with the aid of an arthroscope. This new technique offers surgeons a magnified view of the patella, both intra- and extra-articularly, through a minimally invasive procedure. Although it includes inherent risks and limitations, this new application of arthroscopy would certainly help surgeons to treat patellar fracture.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shioya Hospital of International University of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan.
authors.forename: Shinichi
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Maeno
authors.forename: Daijo
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Hashimoto
authors.forename: Toshiro
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Otani
authors.forename: Ko
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Masumoto
authors.forename: Nobuyuki
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Fujita
authors.forename: Seiji
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Saito