Simultaneous bilateral tibial tubercle avulsion fracture in an adolescent: a case report and review of the literature

Avulsion fractures of the tibial tubercle are uncommon. Bilateral tibial tubercle avulsion fractures are extremely rare. In this article, we describe Watson-Jones type III simultaneous bilateral tibial tubercle avulsion fractures in a 17-year-old boy who fell on the ground while taking off in high jump in sport. An open anatomic reduction and internal fixation was performed. We report here on the successful surgical treatment of a simultaneous bilateral fracture of the tibial tuberosity in an adolescent. These types of fractures involve a growth plate, extend through the articular surface and appear to do well with open reduction and secure internal fixation despite their bilateral nature, with recovery and functional outcome comparable to results from unilateral tibial tubercle avulsion fractures.