Abstract
The purpose of this study was to review the long term functional results of patients undergoing treatment for high energy tibial plateau fractures.
Between January 1994 and June 2013 our unit managed 105 high energy tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker IV-VI) with an Ilizarov frame. All cases were treated via ligamentotaxis and percutaneous fine wire fixation or with a limited open reduction of the joint surface. A retrospective analysis of all patients that have undergone Ilizarov fixation of a tibial plateau fracture was performed with radiological and clinical functional outcome measurements.
We analysed 105 patients with a mean follow up of 93.5 months (range 5–200). The patient group had an average age of 49 years (range 15–87) with 62 patients being male. Fracture pattern was analysed with Schatzker's classification showing 18 type IV, 10 type V and 77 type VI tibial plateau fractures. All fractures had an average time to union of 145 days. Patients had and average range of movement of 117 degrees.
Patients undergoing Ilizarov treatment for high energy tibial plateau fractures achieve successful results long term. Definitive treatment should be decided with respect to fracture pattern and the soft tissue envelope. The management aim should be to achieve anatomical reduction and stable fixation to enable early mobilization. Our study confirms the good functional outcomes and low morbidity that can be achieved in high energy fractures treated with Ilizarov fixation.
