Publication:

Functional and radiological evaluation of surgical management in tibial plateau fractures: a prospective study

Background Tibial plateau fractures affect knee which is a major weight bearing joint, altering its contribution to stability and its function. Regardless of the advancements in technique and implants, ideal mode of management is still contentious.

Methods This prospective study reviewed 20 consecutive cases of tibial plateau fractures managed surgically by various modes of internal fixation from November 2012 to June 2014 in the Department of orthopaedics at Mediciti Institute of medical sciences, Ghanpur, Medchal, a tertiary care referral and trauma center.

Results This study comprised higher number of fractures type II and type IV Schatzker classification, with mean age of 37.75 years. Most frequent mode of injury is Road traffic accident in n=17 out of n=20 patients (85%). Mean gain in flexion of 113.33 degree. Mean score of 27.15 and 9.70 under modified Rasmussen criteria for clinical assessment and radiological assessment respectively at 6 months.

Conclusions Optimal outcome from surgical care of tibial plateau fracture is acquired when precise articular surface reconstruction with elevation of depressed bone fragment, and bone grafting when necessary, associated with rigid fixation which permits early physiotherapy and return to function. Deficiency of excellent results among type V and type VI fractures are often secondary to inadequate reconstruction and collapse of articular restoration post operatively.