Acute tibial tubercle avulsion fractures.

A retrospective analysis of 18 patients with 19 acute tibial tubercle avulsion fractures was performed. Mean age at injury was 13 years 8 months. Mean follow-up time was 2 years 8 months. A group of four preadolescent patients ages 9 to 12 years at injury was identified. Participation in athletics, particularly basketball, resulted in 77% of fractures. There were one type IA, three type IB, two type IIA, six type IIB, two type IIIA, four type IIIB, and one type IV fractures. Fifteen fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation and four by closed reduction and cylinder cast immobilization. Three cases (15.7%) of extensor mechanism disruption were noted, two patellar tendon avulsions and one quadriceps avulsion. Final outcome was good in all patients regardless of fracture type or treatment. There were no complications.