Study of outcomes of dual plate osteosynthesis in Schatzker type 5 and 6 fractures of proximal tibia

Abstract

Background: The operative treatment of complicated bicondylar fractures of the tibial plateau remains a challenge to even the most experienced surgeons. Such injuries are usually the result of high-energy trauma, and the management of such fractures is complicated by metaphyseal and articular comminution and the frequent occurrence of associated soft tissue injuries. Aims: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of dual plating for treating Schatzker types 5 and 6 bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. Methods: 24 patients with bicondylar tibial plateau fractures and operatively treated in our orthopedic department with dual-plating technique between January 2006 and December 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria for this study were (1) acute and unilateral fractures and (2) displaced bicondylar tibial plateau fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association types C1, C2, and C3).Knee score was used for evaluation of outcome Results: At 12 months postoperatively, the knee score was 88.5 and 84.4in the double buttress plate and combination plate groups, respectively, and the difference was not significant. Out of 24 patients 19 achieved excellent knee score (>90), 4 achieved good (80-90), 1 achieved fair (70-80) and no patient had poor (<70) knee score. Mean range of knee flexion was 115 degrees for dual buttress group and 117.5 degree for combination group. Conclusion: Dual plating in Schatzker type 5 and 6 fractures results in good outcome with low complication rates.