Arthroscopic management of tibial plateau fractures

Abstract

Since the mid 1980 s the arthroscopically and radiologically controlled management of tibial plateau fractures is an established part of arthroscopic surgery of the knee. The aim of this study is to analyse the results of this method in our patient population. Between January 1, 1994 and December 31, 1998 59 patients were operated under arthroscopic and radiologic control. Of the 59 tibial plateau fractures there were concomitant ligamentous injuries in 21 cases. In 34 cases an additional arthroscopic procedure was performed (partial meniscectomy 19 times, a meniscal repair 7 times. An arthroscopic procedure was necessary because of chondral lesions 14 times, and in 10 cases a rupture of the ACL was found, which was treated by resection). None of the 8 patients with lateral wedge fracture had a concomitant intraarticular lesion. The intraoperative use of Endobon provided good mechanical stability, but it is not always necessary. The negative aspect of Endobon, however, is the high cost. The number of complications in our series was low (3 intra- and 6 postoperative complications). The average follow-up interval was 48 months. According to the Lysholm-Score, 41 patients investigated obtained an average of 84 points. Because of its good results this procedure can be recommended when conducted by an experienced arthroscopic surgeon. However, the range of indications is limited to special tibial plateau fractures. In case of intraoperative problems or complications we recommend an early change to conventional methods of internal fixation of tibial plateau fractures.