6533b7d3fe1ef96bd12612cd

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Diagnostische Möglichkeiten und Behandlungsstrategien für die Fraktur der Eminentia intercondylica im Wachstumsalter

subject

description

Between 1970 and 1993 29 fractures of the intercondylar eminence were seen in children with almost the same number of cases showing no or minor displacement as those requiring open reduction for major dislocation. Combined knee injury must be suspected the higher the patient's age and the more pronounced the displacement of the fragment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has gained diagnostic predominance. Arthroscopy remains important for surgical management, especially of associated meniscus and cartilage damage. Early puncture of hemarthrosis is essential. Closed management is the therapy for nondisplaced fragments or those with bone contact or only tuberculum fractures--while displaced fragments require operative reduction. Arthroscopy-aided wire fixation is the preferred technique, followed by open reduction using absorbable suture material (wire in special cases). Traction screws should be used only in older children with large fragments. Our series show good late results because occasional function impairment with knee instability tends to normalize with growth. Corrective orthopedic procedures--if at all--are required only for juveniles or adults.