Dual plate osteosynthesis in bicondylar tibial plateau fractures-case series

Abstract

<p>Tibial plateau fractures accounts for about 1% of injuries. Various mechanisms have been described, resulting in milder form to serious injuries depending upon force of impact. High velocity injuries resulted from valgus or varus impacted forces combined with axial loading such as in Schatzker type 6. The ideal method of treatment for these fractures is always a matter of debate. As all intra-articular fractures necessitate anatomic reduction of the articular surface, restoration of axial alignment, and stable fixation, which can be achieved very well by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with dual plating. To study the functional and radiological outcome of Tibial plateau fractures treated surgically with dual plate osteosynthesis. 15 patients in the age group 18-60 were included. Rasmussens criteria was used to assess the functional and radiological outcomes with follow up period of 1 year prospectively. The outcome assessment using Rasmussens score concluded good results. The average duration for union was ­6 months. ROM achieved in these patients were to be at least 124 degrees. The infection rate in this study was accounted as 13.3%. Open reduction and internal fixation of tibial plateau fractures, by dual plating has good functional and radiological outcome. This is an effective method of treatment even with moderate soft tissue injury if meticulous surgical technique, appropriate soft tissue handling and adequate healing period given. All these have shown to decrease the postoperative complications such as infection.</p>