Multidirectional Tibial Tubercle Transfer Technique: Rationale and Biomechanical Investigation

This study describes a new surgical technique to transfer the tibial tubercle, explains the rationale for its development, and reports the results of initial biomechanical testing. The design goals were to create a tibial tubercle osteotomy that would provide equivalent or better initial fixation compared with traditional techniques, yet would be more flexible, reproducible, accurate, less invasive, and safer. The results of the biomechanical analysis suggest that initial fixation with this novel tubercle transfer technique is as strong as traditional Elmslie–Trillat and anteromedialization procedures. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 25(3):157–164, 2016)
Key words: anteromedialization, osteotomy, patella tracking, Q angle, tibial tubercle, trochlear groove