Anterior and posterior approaches of plate fixation for repair of Schatzker V and VI tibial plateau fractures

Li Jiang-ping

doi:10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2015.22.022

Abstract：BACKGROUND:Schatzker V and VI tibial plateau fractures are often accompanied by severe articular facet colapse, separation of tibial condyles, damage of soft tissue and peripheral blood vessels. To reduce soft tissue damage, clinical treatments include limited open and reduction, Kirschner wire internal fixation and external fixation, however, these treatments are ineffective for the reduction of articular facet. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the biocompatibility of titanium aloy locking compression plate fixation through the medial or posteromedial combined anterolateral approaches for treatment of Schatzker V and VI tibial plateau fractures. METHODS:Fifty patients of Schatzker V and VI tibial plateau fractures recruited from our hospital were analyzed retrospectively, and were treated with locking plate fixation through the combined approaches. The repair effect in patients was observed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:After plate fixation, the fractures in 50 patients were clinicaly healed, no cases appeared nonunion, loosening or breakage. According to the Rasmussen Rating, anatomical location average score was (14.3±1.9) points, with the good rate of 90%; average score of knee function was (24.3±2.5) points, with the good rate of 84%. At 1 year post-surgery, knee flexion range was 100°-130°, average 115°. Experimental findings indicate that, the plate fixation through the combined approaches can achieve good stability, good fracture reduction, and good functional recovery in treatment of Schatzker V and VI tibial plateau fractures.