Abstract
Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a fixed-angle locking star-plate for the fixation of periprosthetic patellar fractures (PPPFs) in individuals with partial or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The objectives focus on patient outcomes, complication rates, and functional recovery.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective case series design was utilized, encompassing a chart review at a single-center Level 1 Trauma Center. The population included patients with PPPFs who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with a fixed-angle locking star-plate from September 2021 to January 2023. Clinical examinations and radiographs were used to assess outcomes and complications.
Results: Three patients were treated for PPPFs. A 77-year-old male (Patient 1) resumed normal activities and reported complete pain relief at four months post-ORIF. A 51-year-old female (Patient 2) demonstrated enhanced pain control and increased knee flexion, although she presented a non-healing surgical wound. A 70-year-old female (Patient 3) with severe PPPF and osteoporosis experienced an extensor mechanism disruption and infection, leading to hardware removal and permanent knee extension loss. The follow-up period ranged from 2.5 weeks to four months postoperatively. Conclusions: Fixed-angle locking star-plate fixation for PPPFs generally showed favorable results. However, the treatment of a patient with severe osteoporosis and extensor mechanism impairment resulted in a suboptimal outcome. These findings underscore the importance of tailored approaches to PPPF management and highlight the need for further research to compare treatment methods.