15 children with fracture of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia were reviewed. 3 with type I or type II fractures had closed treatment. 12 with type III fractures had open reduction and internal fixation. Follow-up examination included history and examination of the knee; 9 had follow-up radiographs. The mean follow-up period was 7 years. 7 patients were free of symptoms; 8 had varying degrees of pain, of which 4 had to avoid some athletic activities; and 2 described subluxation episodes. All had normal motion, 4 had atrophy, and all had some evidence of anterior cruciate ligament laxity. The anterior cruciate ligament probably stretches before its tibial attachment fractures. Even though the fracture heals in its normal position, mild degrees of anterior cruciate ligament laxity often will result.
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15 children with fracture of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia were reviewed. 3 with type I or type II fractures had closed treatment. 12 with type III fractures had open reduction and internal fixation. Follow-up examination included history and examination of the knee; 9 had follow-up radiographs. The mean follow-up period was 7 years. 7 patients were free of symptoms; 8 had varying degrees of pain, of which 4 had to avoid some athletic activities; and 2 described subluxation episodes. All had normal motion, 4 had atrophy, and all had some evidence of anterior cruciate ligament laxity. The anterior cruciate ligament probably stretches before its tibial attachment fractures. Even though the fracture heals in its normal position, mild degrees of anterior cruciate ligament laxity often will result.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.