Abstract

Fractures of the patella usually are transverse. In this study, the results of 20 transverse patellar fractures treated with the modified tension band technique and followed between 1992 and 1999 years were evaluated. There were 5 (25%) female, 15 (75%) male, and the average age was 38.7 years (22 to 70). The causes of patellar fractures were traffic accidents in 12 (60%) cases, falling in 5 (25%) cases and sportive activities in 3 (15%) cases. The mean time from injury to operation was 6.2 days (2 to 12). The average follow-up time was 30 months, ranging from 1 to 8 years. Good result in 11 (55%) cases, fair result in 6 (30%) cases and poor result in 3 (15%) cases were obtained. As a result of this study, it was concluded that the modified tension band technique gave successful results in the treatment of transverse patellar fractures.