Prospective Observation of Tibial Plateau Fractures Managed with Open Reduction Internal Fixation with Plate...

Tibial plateau fractures account for approximately 1% of all fractures and are clinically significant due to their intra-articular features, which may compromise the long-term functionality, symmetry, and rigidity of the knee. Evaluation of the results of tibial plateau fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using plate osteosynthesis was the goal of this prospective observational study.

Forty patients with closed tibial plateau fractures, aged 18 to 70, participated in a systematic prospective study conducted at Chettinad Hospital. All patients had ORIF with plate osteosynthesis. Individuals were monitored at 1, 3, and 6 months, and functional results were evaluated using the Modified Rasmussen Score.

In the present investigation of 40 tibial plateau fracture individuals, 87.5% were male, and the average age was 40.15 years. The most common causes (77.5%) were automobile accidents. Schatzker type VI (22.5%) and type V (20%) fractures were most common. The average surgery time was 75.9 minutes, and the average union time was 15.9 weeks. Modified Rasmussen Scores improved from 13.95 preoperatively to 25.85 after six months. Ninety-five per cent of those treated achieved satisfactory to outstanding results at final follow-up. Implant discomfort or infection occurred in 7.5% of cases. Success required restoring joint congruity, positioning, and rigidity.

Tibial-plateau fractures, a complex category of intra-articular fractures, present substantial problems owing to their complex nature and capacity for functional problems. Located in the proximal end of the tibia, these fractures represent a minor proportion of overall fractures. However, they have a disproportionately large impact, particularly in the elderly population, where they are responsible for a large number of fractures. Effective treatment of these fractures is essential to reducing long-term functional deficits and enhancing patient well-being.

In summary, tibial plateau fractures can be effectively treated with ORIF with plates, which encourages quick healing and reduces the risk of long-term impairment.