Comparing two methods for fixing unstable patellar fractures
Official title: The WASP Trial (Wiring Versus Anterior Star Plate): Comparison of Patella Plating Versus Tension Band Wiring for the Treatment of Unstable Patellar Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06981039 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether using a new type of plate to fix unstable kneecap fractures works better and is safer than the traditional wiring method for people with these injuries.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 14, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 20, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06981039 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with isolated closed, displaced, unstable patellar fractures requiring surgical intervention.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of knee surgery, polytrauma, severe knee osteoarthritis, or those unable to consent or follow commands may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study compares the efficacy and safety of anatomical locking plate fixation versus tension band wiring in treating unstable patellar fractures. Patellar fractures can lead to significant pain and disability, and traditional treatment methods like tension band wiring have drawbacks such as implant prominence and high reoperation rates. The study aims to determine if the newer anatomical locking plates provide better outcomes, including less pain and lower complication rates. This is the first randomized controlled trial to directly compare these two fixation methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for patients with unstable patellar fractures, resulting in better recovery and fewer complications.
How similar studies have gone: This approach is novel as it is the first randomized controlled trial comparing these two fixation methods for patellar fractures.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 18 years or older * Diagnosed with an isolated closed injury, displaced, unstable fracture with displacement \>2mm (AO/OTA Classification 34-B and C with surgical indication) * Able to give consent Exclusion Criteria: * History of previous knee surgery * Poly trauma, * Ongoing malignancy * Pre-existing severe knee osteoarthritis (\>KL stage 4) * Stroke * Other neurological conditions/injuries to the lower limb * Unfit for surgical anaesthesia * Non-ambulatory * Unable to consent or follow commands
Where it's running
-
Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Christian Fang — Dept of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Queen Mary Hospital
- Study coordinator: Christian FANG
- Email: cfang@hku.hk
- Phone: +852 22554581
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.