Imaging Review of Adolescent Tibial Tuberosity Fractures

Adolescent tibial tuberosity injuries are infrequent fractures usually seen in physically active adolescent males. Powerful contraction of the knee extensors by sudden acceleration or deceleration of the quadriceps muscle can result in avulsion fractures of the tibial tuberosity apophysis. In late puberty, as the growth plate closes, it is transiently replaced by fibrocartilaginous elements. This transition causes a period of weakened tensile strength, which predisposes the tibial tuberosity to traction injury. Classification of tibial tuberosity fractures includes types I-V with added A and B subsets to types I, II and III. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is a useful tool to more accurately classify complex, higher grade adolescent tibial tuberosity avulsion fractures when compared to plain film. This aids in preoperative planning and, therefore, results in improved treatment and management.