Lag screws

The patellofemoral joint is biomechanically very stressed when the knee is loaded. Any compromise of the joint surface is likely to lead to degenerative joint disease. It is, therefore, highly desirable, in vertical patellar fractures to strive for anatomical reduction of the joint surface and stable fixation with interfragmentary compression.

In simple partial articular sagittal fractures, lag screw fixation alone, following anatomical reduction, provides absolute stability.

The addition of cerclage wiring is not necessary as the longitudinal integrity of the extensor mechanism is not disrupted.

Historically 4.5 screws were used but have been found to be too large. Now it is more common to use 3.5 or 2.7 screws.

Anatomical reduction of the articular surface is monitored by palpating the joint from inside, as neither inspection nor the x-ray will reveal a minor step off. This will require creation of a small arthrotomy.

Nevertheless, an image intensifier or X-ray should always be available, so that the reduction can be checked in the AP and lateral planes if needed.

This procedure is normally performed with the patient in a supine position with the knee flexed 30°.

For this procedure a mid-axial longitudinal approach is used.

The knee joint and fracture lines must be irrigated and cleared of blood clots and small debris to allow exact reconstruction.

With the knee in flexion, reduce the fracture using a pointed bone reduction forceps or tenaculum.

Two K-wires are inserted through the planned screw trajectory with the fracture reduced

Insert two partially threaded cannulated lag screws over the K-wires.

Alternatively, a fully threaded screw may be inserted using the appropriate technique.

• Lag screw insertion

Anatomical restoration of the articular surface is verified by palpation if possible.

Active knee function requires an intact knee extensor mechanism, a mobile patella, a well-preserved patello-femoral joint and muscle strength.
After satisfactory reduction and fixation of patellar fractures, early controlled range of motion exercises are combined with static quadriceps strengthening exercises. The progressive increase in loading of the patello-femoral joint depends on many factors and requires planned individual programs, designed by the surgeon and physical therapists.

Patellar fixation is generally quite stable. Early progressive, active mobilization is beneficial after surgery. Despite, wearing a splint to protect against never losing complete extension, range of motion is done throughout the day with the splint off. Static isometric quadriceps exercises should be started on postoperative day 1 with the splint in place. Usually the anterior incision is slow to heal as it is over a flexion surface and so it is usually best to leave the knee in extension for at least a week.
Afterwards, special emphasis should be given on active knee and hip movement.

A removable full extension knee splint is applied and worn until good quadriceps control is regained. Full weight bearing may be performed with a straight knee, using crutches or a walker, from postoperative day 1.

Wound healing should be assessed regularly during the first two weeks. X-rays should be taken at 2, 6 and 12 weeks. A longer period may be required if fracture healing is delayed.

Implant removal may be required, as the wires may be prominent under the skin. Implant removal should not be undertaken until a minimum of 1 year postoperatively.