Fractured patella: operative treatment using the tension band principle.

The tension band principle was applied in the operative treatment of fractures of the patella in 139 patients, of which 100 were reviewed retrospectively; 61 per cent were males and 70 per cent were aged between 50 and 70. The fractures were treated soon after admission and movement of the knee was started as soon as possible after the operation. Sixty-eight patients were reviewed and 72 per cent were happy with the resulting knee function. Objectively, 81.3 per cent had an excellent or good result. Minor troubles from the operations were common but it was concluded that the wiring of fractured patellas using the tension band principle is a safe and effective technique.