Abstract
Aim: To evaluate outcome with current treatment methods of patients with severe (AO Type C) fractures of the tibial plafond.
Method: All patients with AO Type C fractures of the tibial plafond were included in the study. Treatment was predominantly by way of temporary external fixation with staged open reduction and internal fixation once soft tissue swelling had receded. A clinical and radiological review was performed at an average of two years after initial presentation.
Results: Thirty-five Type C fractures were reviewed. All fractures united. There were no deep infections. Sic patients have required major subsequent surgery. Three have undergone arthrodeses for post-traumatic degenerative change. Three have had bone grafting and/or adjustment of fixation.
Conclusion: Temporary external fixation with staged internal fixation for AO Type C fractures of the tibial plafond produced reasonable results at medium term follow up.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor Alan Thurston. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the New Zealand Orthopaedic Association, PO Box 7451, Wellington, New Zealand.
