Fracture-avulsion of tibial tubercle apophyseal in two Cameroonian adolescents

• Published in: Trauma case reports Vol. 35; p. 100525
• Main Authors: Bombah, F.M., Nana, T., Ekani, B.Y., Biwolé, D., Handy, E.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier Ltd 01.10.2021; Elsevier
• Subjects: Adolescent; Africa; Case Report; Fracture-avulsion; Tibial tubercle apophyseal; Tibial tubercle apophyseal; Fracture-avulsion; Adolescent; Africa
• ISSN: 2352-6440; 2352-6440
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tcr.2021.100525

Avulsion-fractures of the tibial tubercle apophysis are a rare lesion of active adolescent. They are relatively uncommon injuries that occur in the active adolescent. We described cases of tibial tubercle apophysis avulsion-fractures in two Cameroonian adolescents. We observed 2 cases which occurred in boys after contraction of the quadriceps during sports activity (high jump and football). The lesions were classified as Type IV by Ryu and Debenham (case 1) and type IA by Ogden (Case 2). The treatment was surgical by double screwing (case 1) and orthopedic by plaster knee brace (Case 2). The functional result was excellent without complications. Non-displaced fracture of the anterior tibial tubercle I type IA Ogden has good prognosis and responding very well to non-surgical treatment. It should be considered as a separate entity. The other cases of displaced fracture generally require surgery which enables an assessment of often associated lesions. Type IV can required supplemental plate fixation to stabilize the proximal tibia. The prognosis of displaced fractures is poor due to the associated lesions and potential complications. Functional results are excellent despite a few cases of previous pain limiting sports activity. Avulsion fractures of the anterior tuberosity in adolescents remain rare in Africa and worldwide. The circumstances of the occurrence are stereotypical. If treated properly, the outcome is usually good.