Comparison of dual plating with single lateral locking plate supplemented with two medial cannulated cancellous screws for AO type C tibial plateau fractures—An experience from central India

Abstract

Background: Type C tibial plateau fractures are complex injuries, and an ideal method for their treatment is still controversial. In the present study, we discuss the outcomes of Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) type C tibial plateau fractures treated with dual locking plating and single lateral locking plate supplemented with two medial cannulated cancellous (CC) screws. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 34 patients of AO type C tibial plateau fractures divided into two groups. Dual locking plating and single lateral locking plate supplemented with two medial CC screws were the treatment methods in group 1 and groups II, respectively. The patients were evaluated using the Rasmussen clinical grading system at 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Results: The range of motion (ROM) was observed as 121.0° ± 1.9° and 126.3° ± 2.6° in group II, whereas in group I, ROM was 112.5° ± 3.1° and 120° ± 1.5° at 1 and 2 years, respectively. Pain, walking capacity, and final outcome were significantly better in group II at 1 and 2 years postoperatively. No significant difference was observed in two groups in terms of radiological results. Conclusion: Lateral locking plate supplemented with two medial CC screws proves to be a better method to treat AO type C tibial plateau fractures in adults, with minimal complications.