Arthroscopic Suture Bridge Fixation of Tibial Intercondylar Eminence Fractures

• Published in: Arthroscopy techniques (Amsterdam) Vol. 2; no. 4; pp. e315 - e318
• Main Authors: Sawyer, Gregory A., M.D, Hulstyn, Michael J., M.D, Anderson, Brett C., M.D, Schiller, Jonathan, M.D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier Inc 01.11.2013; Elsevier
• Subjects: Orthopedics; Technical Note
• ISSN: 2212-6287; 2212-6287
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2013.04.004

Abstract Tibial intercondylar eminence fractures that are displaced and non-reducible require open or arthroscopically assisted repair. Ideally, fracture reduction and fixation would be performed with a technique that has low morbidity, allows easy visualization and reduction, provides firm fixation, does not violate the proximal tibial physis, avoids metal hardware, and does not require a second procedure for implant removal. The suture bridge technique, used in the shoulder for rotator cuff tears and greater tuberosity fracture repair, has the ability to produce high contact pressures with rigid fixation. We describe an all-inside and all-epiphyseal arthroscopic suture bridge technique for tibial intercondylar eminence fracture repair performed with PushLock anchors (Arthrex, Naples, FL). One or 2 anchors preloaded with No. 2 FiberWire (Arthrex) are placed in the posterior fracture bed, followed by fracture reduction. The suture limbs are shuttled through and around the anterior cruciate ligament and over the fracture fragment in crossing fashion and are secured by use of additional anchors placed at the anteromedial and anterolateral fracture margin. The anchors are placed obliquely to avoid the proximal tibial physis in the pediatric population. Anatomic reduction and secure fixation allow more aggressive rehabilitation and faster restoration of joint function.