Patellar sleeve fractures : Bracing and augmentation technique with suture tape

Transosseous augmentation of patellar sleeve fractures (PSF) with suture tape in young athletes. Acute avulsions of the proximal or distal patellar pol with clinical relevant deficit of knee extension. Local infections, severe soft tissue damage (relative contraindication), fractures of the patella or tibial tuberosity. Direct longitudinal anterior approach to the patella. Debridement of the proximal patellar tendon insertion. Anatomic reduction of any osteochondral fragments. Transosseous augmentation of the tendon with FiberTapes® (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA). Passive motion exercise to 30° of flexion from day 1; increase to 60° from week 3; 90° from week 5. Partial load-bearing of 20 kg with knee in locked full extension brace during first 2 weeks. Isometric exercises from week 3. Free active ROM and full weight bearing from week 7. If diagnosis and treatment is early and sufficient augmentation of the tendon and periosteum is provided, good to excellent functional outcome can be expected.