Analysis of the Efficacy of Arthroscopic Suture Anchor "X" Fixation for Lateral Femoral Condyle Osteochondral Fractures.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of arthroscopic suture anchor "X" fixation and hollow compression screw fixation in treating lateral femoral condyle osteochondral fractures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study analyzed 31 patients diagnosed with lateral femoral condyle osteochondral fractures, treated at our hospital between June 2015 and July 2024. Patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical approach: Group A received arthroscopic suture anchor "X" fixation, while Group B underwent arthroscopic hollow compression screw fixation combined with a spacer. HSS scores and excellent outcome rates were assessed at postoperative day 3, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Additionally, postoperative complications were evaluated through a second arthroscopic procedure.

RESULTS The surgical duration in Group A was significantly longer than in Group B (P < 0.05). No significant differences in HSS scores were found between the groups at postoperative day 3 and 1 month, while Group A showed significantly higher HSS scores at 3 months and 6 months compared to Group B (P < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative knee joint complications was lower in Group A than in Group B, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS The suture anchor system is effective for both non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing areas of the lateral femoral condyle, especially for small bone fragments, showing favorable clinical results. Compared to traditional hollow compression screw fixation, the suture anchor system significantly reduces postoperative complications and improves knee joint function.