Arthroscopically guided Kirschner wire fixation for fractures of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia

Abstract

Eight children with type II and III fractures of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia were treated. The osteochondral fragments were reduced arthroscopically and held with Kirschner wires with the knee in extension. The wires were then incorporated into a long leg plaster. There was no associated significant collateral ligament or meniscal damage in any of the knees requiring operative intervention. At follow-up all the fragments had healed. None had symptoms of ligamentous laxity. One knee showed increased antero-posterior laxity compared with his normal knee associated with a 20 degree block to extension. Arthroscopic reduction and Kirschner wire fixation provides an accurate and effective treatment of these fractures, helping to avoid chronic ligamentous laxity and decreasing the morbidity associated with open procedures.