FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF SCHATZKER TYPE 5 AND 6 TIBIAL PLATEAU FRACTURE TREATED BY PROXIMAL LOCKING PLATE.

Corresponding Author:
Dr. Chatla Srinivas,
Flat 105, B-36, SKS Residency,
Durgabai Deshmukh Colony,
Hyderabad-500013, Telangana, India.
E-mail: sriortho68@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Proximal tibial plateau fractures are complex and complicated intraarticular fractures around the knee joint.¹ The incidence is rising among the younger population with an annual rate of incidence as high as 12% among all other fractures seen in our hospital casualty. There are various methods of treatment described in the literature, but even today managing these fractures is an enigma.

This study aims to examine the functional outcome of Schatzker type 5 and 6 proximal tibia fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation by proximal tibial locking plate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study of 54 cases of Schatzker type 5 and 6 proximal tibia fractures, aged between 19 years and 54 years during the period 2011-2015 in our hospital. All are treated by open reduction and internal fixation with proximal tibial locking plate and screws, except in two cases additional posteromedial buttress plating was done. Post-operatively, patient’s leg was immobilised in posterior POP slab until suture removal. Later the limb is rested on knee brace for four weeks with an advice to do static quadriceps and ankle exercises. They were allowed to walk with brace without bearing weight on affected limb. The patient is followed up at regular intervals of 3, 6, 12 and 24 weeks. The functional outcome is assessed by Oxford knee scoring at the end of 24 weeks.

RESULTS

Excellent results are seen in 81% of cases.

CONCLUSION

Our study has shown that Type V and VI Proximal tibial fractures, treated by ORIF and Proximal locking plate produced good results in 32-month follow-up. Though, in long-term the knees are subjected to excess wear and tear of the damaged articular cartilage resulting in early secondary osteoarthritis.

KEYWORDS

Proximal Tibial Fracture, Locking Plate Osteosynthesis.