Suture fixation as a treatment for acute traumatic osteochondral lesions

This is a report on the treatment of traumatic osteochondral lesions with suture fixation. Equivocal results from traditional, conservative treatment modalities have resulted in a recent surge in research in this area. Literature reports of treatments for these lesions often rely on a fibrocartilage healing response that exhibits inadequate weight bearing, lubricating, and durability qualities. We describe here a method by which a large, intact osteochondral fragment over the articulating, weight-bearing portion of the patella may be repaired using suture. This method allows for the preservation of the articular topography without many of the complications seen using other fixation techniques.