Abstract
Aims: To evaluate the functional recovery of the complex tibial plateau fractures Schatzker type V and VI treated with hybrid ex. fix..
Methods: Twenty-eight patients with intra-articular fractures of the proximal tibia were treated with hybrid external fixation in a three years period (1998–2001).The mean age was 35 years (17–76). According to Schatzker classification, there were 11(39.3%) fractures type V and 17(60.7) type VI, whereas 5(17.8%) fractures were open. Complex injury was recorded in 15(53.5%) patients. Closed reduction and hybrid external fixation was achieved in 21 (75%) fractures. Additional limited internal fixation was performed in 9(32%) cases. Open reduction was necessary in 7(25%) patients. Mobilization of the injured articulation was started at the 3rd postoperative day.
Results: Mean follow up period was 18 months. All fractures but one united at an average of 13.5 weeks (range from 11 to 18 weeks). The results were assessed according to the criteria of Honkonen and Jarvinen. An overall 22(78%) excellent and good results was recorded at the final follow up. Complications included one axial deformity, one septic pseudarthrosis, one peronial palsy and five pin tract infections.
Conclusions: The use of hybrid external fixation in the comminuted tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker V,VI), insure good restraining and early union, avoid major soft tissue complications and allow early mobilization and functional recovery of the knee joint.
The abstracts were prepared by Eleni Koutsoukou. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Hellenic Association of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (HAOST), 20, A. Fleming str, 15123 Marousi, Athens, Greece.
