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J Knee Surg 2007; 20(3): 249-250
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1248052
Technical Note

© 2007 Thieme Medical Publishers

Creation of Transosseous Patellar Tunnels During Extensor Mechanism Repair

Alvin J. Detterline, Christian Lattermann, Bernard R. Bach Jr 
  • The Division of Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Ill
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 January 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Transosseous patellar tunnels commonly are used in the repair of acute or chronic patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon ruptures. Commonly, a small diameter (2.0-3.5 mm) drill bit is used to create these drill tunnels. However, drill bits are relatively brittle and susceptible to breakage. The use of a larger diameter smooth Steinmann pin (3/32″) is recommended to create transosseous patellar tunnels to eliminate this potential complication.