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Tape versus cast for non-operative treatment of primary patellar dislocation: a randomized controlled trial

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Abstract

Purpose

We hypothesized that taping results in better short-term functional outcome and comparable redislocation rates.

Methods

In a prospective randomised clinical trial, 18 patients with a primary patellar dislocation ≥18 years old without accompanying fractures or previous surgery to the knee were included. After 1 week of dorsal splinting, they were randomized into two groups: taping and cylinder cast immobilization. Physical examination and knee function according to the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale were taken at 1-, 6- and 12-week and at 1- and 5-year follow-up. We also compared the redislocation rates.

Results

Taping resulted in a significantly better Lysholm score at 6 and 12 weeks post-dislocation (P < 0.05), and also after 5-year follow-up (P < 0.01). Knee function was better at 1-year follow-up. There were no cases of recurrent dislocation.

Conclusion

Tape bandage immobilization seems superior to a cylinder cast even after 5 years.

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Acknowledgments

There were no other contributors or sources of funding of this study.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, UMC St Radboud Hospital, Geert Grooteplein 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

    Akkie Rood

  2. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, PO Box 9015, 6500 GS, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

    Harm Boons, Joris Ploegmakers & Sander Koëter

  3. Department of Trauma Surgery, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, PO Box 9015, 6500 GS, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

    William van der Stappen

Authors
  1. Akkie Rood
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  2. Harm Boons
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  3. Joris Ploegmakers
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  4. William van der Stappen
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  5. Sander Koëter
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Correspondence to Akkie Rood.

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Rood, A., Boons, H., Ploegmakers, J. et al. Tape versus cast for non-operative treatment of primary patellar dislocation: a randomized controlled trial. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 132, 1199–1203 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-012-1521-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-012-1521-8

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