Comminuted avulsion fractures on the inferior pole of the patella

Treatment of comminuted avulsion fractures of the inferior pole of the patella is still an unsolved problem. Different methods of treatment have been introduced, some quite controversial, including immediate total patellectomy, a variety of partial patellectomies, and fixation by tension band wiring. Yet the problem of early developement of arthrosis and a certain degree of limitation of motion due to the changed biomechanics, retropatellar incongruity and postoperative immobilization must still be resolved. We report two cases with comminuted avulsion fractures of the inferior pole of the patella, treated by fixation with a basket plate. The method allows for immediate postoperative mobilization of the knee joint and early weight bearing.