Functional and Clinical Outcome of Fiber Tape Fixation in Transverse Patella Fractures: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background:

Patellar fractures account for approximately 1% of all skeletal injuries and commonly affect the working-age population. Traditional fixation using tension band wiring (TBW) is associated with complications such as hardware irritation and reoperation. FiberTape fixation offers a non-metallic alternative with superior biomechanical properties.

Objective:

To evaluate the functional and clinical outcomes of FiberTape fixation in transverse patella fractures.

Methods:

A prospective observational study was conducted on 30 patients with transverse patella fractures treated using FiberTape fixation. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Tegner activity score and knee range of motion (ROM) over a follow-up period of 6 months. Statistical analysis included Chi-square test, independent t-test, and ANOVA.

Results:

The mean age was 42.9 years. Mean ROM achieved was 131.1°, and the mean Tegner score was 88.9. Excellent outcomes were seen in 73.3% of patients. ROM (p=0.02), Tegner score (p=0.01), and mode of injury (p=0.03) showed statistically significant correlation with outcomes. Complication rate was low (13.3%).

Conclusion:

FiberTape fixation provides excellent functional recovery with minimal complications and represents a reliable alternative to metallic fixation techniques.