Small wire external fixation for high-energy tibial plateau fractures

Treatment of Schatzker Type VI Tibia Fractures Using Circular External Fixation: State of the Art, Surgical Technique and Results

BACKGROUND

Schatzker type VI tibia fractures are usually associated with infection and surgical wound-related problems. Circular external fixation (CEF) has been shown to minimize such complications.

METHODS

We pose a retrospective study of patients with Schatzker type VI fractures treated with CEF.

RESULTS

Twenty-two (22) patients were included (11M/11F) with a mean age of 60.1 ± 14.9 years. According to the AO/OTA classification, two fractures (9.1%) were A2, three (13.6%) were A3, and seventeen (77.3%) were C3. Three (13.6%) of them were open. The tissue damage observed in the nineteen (86.4%) closed fractures was classified according to Tscherne (four grade I, twelve grade II, and three grade III). The mean ex-fix time was 24.1 ± 5.1 weeks. None of the patients experienced deep infections, nonunion, or malunion. The mean ROM was 111.4 ± 17.8 degrees. Although stability was achieved in all cases, 50% of them suffered osteoarthritic degeneration. Four knees required TKR at a mean of 8.77 ± 5.58 years from trauma. The mean HHS knee score was 84.2 ± 10.3 points (excellent in fifteen (68.2%) cases, good in four (18.2%), and acceptable in three (13.6%)). The mean Rasmussen radiological score was 13.3 ± 3.5 (excellent in three (13.6%) cases, good in fifteen (68.2%), and acceptable in four (18.2%)). The mean SF-12 score was 35.1 ± 10.4 points on the physical scale and 53.0 ± 10.6 points on the mental scale.

CONCLUSIONS

CEF has shown itself to be a valid treatment for patients with Schatzker type VI fractures, particularly for those where the fracture is comminuted, severely displaced, open, or associated with severe soft tissue damage.

Treatment of high-energy intra-articular fractures of tibia with Ilizarov external fixator in adults: A tertiary centre experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of the Ilizarov fixator in the proximal and distal fractures of the tibia.

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY

This retrospective study reviewed 59 patients having high-energy intra-articular proximal and distal tibia fractures associated with severe soft-tissue injury, who were managed surgically with an Ilizarov fixator. The functional outcome was evaluated by using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scoring system (AOFAS) and the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) Italy scoring system for tibial plateau and plafond fractures respectively.

RESULTS

The most common mode of injury was road traffic accidents. According to the Gustilo open fracture classification, there were 16 patients with grade-I and nine with grade II open fractures. The remaining had closed fractures. According to the Schatzker classification of plateau fractures, 20 were graded as type V and 15 as type VI. According to the AO classification of plafond fractures, 12 fractures were graded as Type-43C1, 5 as Type-43C2, and 7 as Type-43C3. There was delayed union in 11 proximal and four distal fractures, all of which achieved union without additional bone grafting. In proximal fractures, according to AOFAS, out of 35, 26 had an acceptable while nine had a fair result. In distal fractures, according to ASAMI, out of 24, 16 had an acceptable while five had fair results. There were 192/448 wires in 58 patients with pin site infection; all were superficial and settled. Posttraumatic joint arthrosis was noted in nineteen.

CONCLUSIONS

The postoperative clinical and radiological outcome indicated that primary Ilizarov external fixator is a reliable minimal invasive surgery and definitive fixation method for high-energy intra-articular proximal and distal tibial fractures with compromised soft-tissue. It also offers early stabilisation and painless joint motion without a high rate of complications.

Post-operative complications of tibial plateau fractures treated with screws or hybrid external fixation

PURPOSE

To assess the complications and second surgeries rates at 1 year follow-up in a group of patients underwent minimally invasive fixation with screws or hybrid external fixation (HEF) for tibial plateau fractures (TPF). The hypothesis was that low Schatzker (I-IV) TPF would have shown a lower complication rate with respect to high Schatzker (V-VI) TPF.

METHODS

148 patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery with screws or HEF for TPF were included and pooled in two groups: mono-condylar (Schatzker I-IV) and bi-condylar (Schatzker V-VI). The rate of second surgeries and complications, such as stiffness, infection, wound dehiscence and malunion occurred within 1 year, were reported.

RESULTS

Statistically significant difference between mono-condylar and bi-condylar groups was found in terms of stiffness (18% vs. 37%, p = 0.01), malunion (4% vs 21%, p = 0.004) and second surgeries (32% vs. 48%, p = 0.049). Associated procedures performed during TPF fixation increased risk of second surgeries (OR 2.1, p < 0.001). No differences in terms of second surgeries and complications were found in bi-condylar group treated with screws and HEF.

CONCLUSION

Bi-condylar TPF treated with minimally invasive surgery developed a significantly higher rates of stiffness, malunion and second surgeries within 1 year compared to mono-condylar fractures. Moreover, when an associated procedure was performed, the risk of a reoperation was nearly doubled. Trial registration number PG 0012506 CE AVEC 620/2018/Oss/IOR.

Percutaneous treatment of tibial plateau fractures

In France, 11,294 proximal tibia fractures occurred in 2018 and 6880 surgical procedures were done to treat them. Most of these were tibial plateau fractures, although fractures can occur in the metaphysis only or in the intercondylar eminence. The proximal tibia's poor vascularization justifies sparing it by doing a percutaneous treatment, setting the stage for bone union. The treatment must be based on rigorous planning with 3D imaging to determine the type of fracture accurately. The goals of treatment are first to realign the lower limb and then to reduce the articular surface, while addressing any associated injuries. Percutaneous reduction is based on ligamentotaxis and the use of spatulas or balloons that spare the vascularization. Surgical navigation and arthroscopy are precious tools for verifying the reduction. There are several options for stabilization, ranging from using polymethylmethacrylate cement for a Schatzker III fracture to applying a cannulated screw or doing MIPPO (Minimal Invasive Percutaneous Plate Osteosynthesis) with an anatomical plate and adjustable locking screws placed under the depression in complex fractures. Percutaneous surgery is not about the size of the incisions; the focus is on sparing the metaphysis and its vascularization to ensure high-quality and long-lasting stability. It appears to yield better functional outcomes than open reduction and internal fixation, not only for Schatzker type I, II and III fractures, but also for complex fractures where open fixation is more damaging and the source of complications.

Prevalence of Deep Surgical Site Infection After Repair of Periarticular Knee Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Surgical management of periarticular knee fractures can be challenging, and adverse outcomes may be severe. Recent literature indicates that the rate of periarticular knee surgical site infection (SSI) may range from 2% to 88% depending on the fracture site.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the prevalence of deep SSI and the rate of septic arthritis after surgical repair of fractures around the knee.

DATA SOURCES

The electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from their inception to July 1, 2018.

STUDY SELECTION

Eligible studies had to specifically report deep SSI rates and include fractures in the distal femur, patella, tibial plateau, or proximal tibia. Risk factors that were associated with increased the risk of deep SSI were also examined.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline. Data were extracted by multiple investigators. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software was used for the pooling of data, using either random-effects or fixed-effects models, with respect to the degree of statistical heterogeneity present. Data analyses were conducted in October 2019.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was overall prevalence of deep SSI after periarticular knee fracture repair. The secondary outcomes were the overall prevalence of septic arthritis, risk factors associated with deep SSI, and the most commonly cultured bacteria specimens found periarticular knee infections.

RESULTS

Of 6928 articles screened, 117 articles met inclusion criteria and were included in analysis. Among 11 432 patients included in analysis, 653 patients (5.7%) experienced deep SSIs, most commonly among patients with proximal tibia fractures (56 of 872 patients [6.4%]). Among studies that included information on septic arthritis, 38 of 1567 patients (2.4%) experienced septic arthritis. The 2 most commonly reported bacteria were methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, found in 67 SSIs, and methicillin-susceptible S aureus, found in 53 SSIs. Sixty-two studies (53.0%) in the sample received a Coleman Methodological Score of poor (<50 points).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Deep SSIs occurred in nearly 6% of periarticular knee fracture repairs, and 2.4% of SSIs were associated with septic arthritis. Surgeons managing these injuries should be vigilant when wounds are not pristine. Efforts should be made to elevate the quality of research conducted not only in this subject but also in orthopedic surgery as a whole.

Outcome of complex tibial plateau fractures with Ilizarov external fixation with or without minimal internal fixation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinico-radiological outcome of complex tibial plateau fractures treated with Ilizarov external fixation with or without minimal internal fixation.

METHODS

This retrospective review was conducted on all the cases of Schatzker types V and VI tibial plateau fractures treated by Ilizarov external fixation between July 2006 and December 2015 with the minimum follow-up duration of one year. There were 30 patients: 24 males and 6 females, mean age 43.33 years, and mean follow-up 3.6 years. Three of them were open fractures; 15 cases were Schatzkertype V fractures and the other 15 type VI. According to AO/OTA classification, there were 11 type C1, 12 C2 and 7 type C3 fractures. Outcome assessment was made with American Knee Society Score (AKSS) and Rasmussen's Radiological Score (RRS) at final follow-up.

RESULTS

Out of the 30 cases, mini-open reduction was performed in 7, bone graft in 4, minimal internal fixation in 10 and knee temporary immobilisation in 11 patients. Mean duration of external fixation was 11.8 weeks. All fractures united. Pin tract infections in 7 and common peroneal neuropathy in 2 patients were self-limiting. Two patients had axial misalignment of less than 10°. At final follow-up, the mean knee range of motion was 114.7, mean AKSS 81.5 and mean RRS 16.7. On statistical analysis, Schatzker type of fractures, use of minimal internal fixation and knee-spanning did not influence the final outcome.

CONCLUSION

Ilizarov external fixator with or without minimal internal fixation provides acceptable outcome for complex tibial plateau fractures. Care must be taken to look for minor loss of alignment, especially in Type VI Schatzker fractures after removal of the fixator. However small sample size precludes firm conclusions.

Malreduction of tibial articular width in bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated with circular external fixation is associated with post-traumatic osteoarthritis

Objectives

We aimed to report outcomes of Bicondylar Tibial Plateau (BTP) fractures treated using Ilizarov fixation, and identify risk factors for developing post-traumatic radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA).

Methods

Retrospective study of 80 BTP fractures managed with Ilizarov fixation.

Results

All fractures united, with only 3 cases of deep infection. ROA was evident in 12.5% at average 13 months post-injury. Increased tibial articular-widening associated with risk of developing ROA (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Ilizarov fixation is safe and reliable in the management of BTP fractures. Restoration of tibial articular-width at fixation associated with reduced risk of developing radiographic OA.

Safe corridor for fibular transfixation wire in relation to common peroneal nerve: A cadaveric analysis

BACKGROUND

Peroneal nerve impalement is a recognized complication of percutaneous placement of fibular transfixation wires by palpatory method after increase use of ilizarov technique in treatment of Tibial fractures, deformity correction and limb lengthening. The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between the Common Peroneal Nerve (CPN) and the palpable landmark, fibular head for insertion of proximal fibular transfixation wire, safe zones in proximal tibia and percentage of fibula where nerve crosses the neck.

METHODS

Standard 1.8-mm Ilizarov k- wires were inserted in the fibula head of fresh 10 un-embalmed cadaveric knees. Wires were inserted percutaneously to the fibula head by palpatory technique. The course of common peroneal nerve was dissected. Distances from wire entry point to the course of the common peroneal nerve were measured post-wire insertion.

RESULTS

The mean distance of the common peroneal nerve from the anterior aspect of the broadest point of the fibular head was 25.10 ± 4.39 mm (range 16-35 mm). Common peroneal nerve was seen to cross the neck of fibula at a mean distance of 32.3 ± 8.53 mm (range 20-50 mm). Wire placement was found to be on average, 46% of the maximal AP diameter of the fibula head and 44% of the distance from tip of fibula to the point of nerve crossing fibula neck.

CONCLUSION

We recommend Proximal fibula transfixation wires are safer to pass with in 2 cm from the tip of the styloid process of the fibula, Anterior half of the head of fibula, <8% of total fibular length, Ventral half of the anterior compartment to avoid injury to peroneal fan. The palpable landmark of fibula is a misinterpretation; it is just the prominent subcutaneous portion of fibula and not the styloid process of fibula which on dissection was located much posterior. Better to take fluoroscopic guidance in difficult cases where palpation of head of fibula is difficult.

Contribution of minimally invasive bone augmentation to primary stabilization of the osteosynthesis of Schatzker type II tibial plateau fractures: Balloon vs bone tamp

BACKGROUND

Schatzker type II tibial plateau fractures necessitate the least invasive treatment possible. Arthroscopic reduction by bone tamp followed by osteosynthesis is the current gold standard for this type of tibial plateau fracture. The objective of this study was to compare this technique to anterior approach tuberoplasty with balloon reduction. The comparison criteria were residual articular step off, metaphyseal cavity volume formed during reduction, and mechanical strength to separation and to depression displacement.

METHODS

Fractures were created on 12 human cadaveric tibiae and reduced by a minimally invasive approach in six specimens by a balloon, and by bone tamp in the six others. Articular step off and metaphyseal-epiphyseal cavity volume were measured by TDM. Mechanical tests were performed up to assembly failure to characterize structural strength. Secondary displacements, fracture depression displacement and separation were measured by optical methods.

FINDINGS

There was no significant difference in step off measurement after balloon reduction or bone tamp (0.29 cm vs 0.37 cm; p = 0.06). The cavity volume formed by balloon reduction was significantly smaller than the volume created by bone tamp reduction (0.45 cm³ vs 5.12 cm; p = 0.002). The compressive load required for assembly failure was significantly greater in the balloon group than in the bone tamp group (1210.17 N vs 624.50 N; p = 0.015).

INTERPRETATION

There exists a correlation between load to failure of the assembly frame and the metaphyseal volume required for bone fracture reduction. The minimally invasive balloon technique has fewer negative effects on the osseous stock, thereby enabling better primary structural strength of the fracture.

Characteristics of postoperative weight bearing and management protocols for tibial plateau fractures: Findings from a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

To identify and describe the characteristics of existing practices for postoperative weight bearing and management of tibial plateau fractures (TPFs), identify gaps in the literature, and inform the design of future research.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases and clinical trial registers were searched from inception until November 17th 2016. Studies were included if they reported on the surgical management of TPFs, had a mean follow-up time of ≥1year and provided data on postoperative management protocols. Data were extracted and synthesized according to study demographics, patient characteristics and postoperative management (weight bearing regimes, immobilisation devices, exercises and complications).

RESULTS

124 studies were included involving 5156 patients with TPFs. The mean age across studies was 45.1 years (range 20.8-72; 60% male), with a mean follow-up of 34.9 months (range 12-264). The most frequent fracture types were AO/OTA classification 41-B3 (29.5%) and C3 (25%). The most commonly reported non-weight bearing time after surgery was 4-6 weeks (39% of studies), with a further 4-6 weeks of partial weight bearing (51% of studies), resulting in 9-12 weeks before full weight bearing status was recommended (55% of studies). Loading recommendations for initial weight bearing were most commonly toe-touch/<10kg (28%), 10kg-20kg (33%) and progressive (39%). Time to full weight bearing was positively correlated with the proportion of fractures of AO/OTA type C (r=0.465, p=0.029) and Schatzker type IV-VI (r=0.614, p<0.001). Similar rates of rigid (47%) and hinged braces were reported (58%), most frequently for 3-6 weeks (43% of studies). Complication rates averaged 2% of patients (range 0-26%) for abnormal varus/valgus and 1% (range 0-22%) for non-union or delayed union.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative rehabilitation for TPFs most commonly involves significant non-weight bearing time before full weight bearing is recommended at 9-12 weeks. Partial weight bearing protocols and brace use were varied. Type of rehabilitation may be an important factor influencing recovery, with future high quality prospective studies required to determine the impact of different protocols on clinical and radiological outcomes.

Role of Joshi's external stabilization system with percutaneous screw fixation in high-energy tibial condylar fractures associated with severe soft tissue injuries

PURPOSE

The treatment of high-energy tibial condylar fractures which are associated with severe soft tissue injuries remains contentious and challenging. In this study, we assessed the results of Joshi's external stabilization system (JESS) by using the principle of ligamentotaxis and percutaneous screw fixation for managing high-energy tibial condylar fractures associated with severe soft tissue injuries.

METHODS

Between June 2008 and June 2010, 25 consecutive patients who were 17e71 years (mean, 39.7), underwent the JESS fixation for high-energy tibial condylar fractures associated with severe soft tissue injuries. Out of 25 patients, 2 were lost during follow-up and in 1 case early removal of frame was done, leaving 22 cases for final follow-up. Among them, 11 had poor skin condition with abrasions and blisters and 2 were open injuries (Gustilo-Anderson grade I&II). The injury mechanisms were motor vehicle accidents (n=19), fall from a height (n=2) and assault (n=1). The fractures were classified according to Schatzker classification system.

RESULTS

There were 7 type-V, 14 type-VI and 1 type-lV Schatzker's tibial plateau fractures. The average interval between the injury and surgery was 6.8 days (range 2-13). The average hospital stay was 13 days (range, 7-22). The average interval between the surgery and full weight bearing was 13.6 weeks (range 11-20). The average range of knee flexion was 121°(range 105°-135°). The normal extension of the knee was observed in 20 patients, and an extensor lag of 5°-8° was noted in 2 patients. The complications included superficial pin tract infections (n=4) with no knee stiffness.

CONCLUSION

JESS with lag screw fixation combines the benefit of traction, external fixation, and limited internal fixation, at the same time as allowing the ease of access to the soft tissue for wound checks, pin care, dressing changes, measurement of compartment pressure, and the monitoring of the neurovascular status. In a nutshell, JESS along with screw fixation offers a promising alternative treatment for high- energy tibial condylar fractures associated with severe soft tissue injuries.

Definitive Management of Open Tibia Fractures Using Limb Reconstruction System

INTRODUCTION

Open fractures are treated as surgical emergency and early administration of intravenous antibiotic coupled with early irrigation and debridement decreases the infection rate dramatically. Limb Reconstruction System (LRS) is a unilateral rail system which consists of Shanz pins, rail rods and sliding clamps. It is specifically designed to enable the surgeon to perform simple and effective surgery as it offers rigid fixation of fracture fragments, allowing early weight bearing and reduces economic burden.

AIM

To determine the efficacy of Limb Reconstruction System for treatment of compound tibia fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective study was carried out where in 54 cases out of 412 compound tibia fractures having Modified Gustilo Anderson Type IIIA and IIIB with a mean age of 42±5 years were treated using LRS over a period of 26 months. Limb reconstruction system was used in acute docking mode or with corticotomy and bone transport was done depending upon the bone loss. The soft tissue condition was assessed and split thickness skin grafting and flap repairs were done as per the need. Clinical and radiological assessment was done at every follow-up. Bony and functional assessment was done by Association for the Study and Application of the Methods of Illizarov (ASAMI) criteria.

RESULTS

Among 54 patients, bony results as per ASAMI score were excellent in 36, good in 14, fair in 2 and poor in 2 patients. Functional results were excellent in 43, good in 7, fair in 4 patients. The average fracture union time was 8 months. Post-surgery patient satisfaction was excellent since fixation allowed weight bearing immediately. Average hospital stay was 7 days and financial burden was reduced by 40% as compared to multi staged surgery. The average time of return to work was 20 days.

CONCLUSION

LRS is an easy, simple and definitive surgical procedure that allows immediate full weight bearing walking. It reduces hospital stay, is cost effective with excellent patient compliance and can also be used for bone lengthening/transportation.

What's new in the management of complex tibial plateau fractures?

The management of complex tibial plateau fractures is ever evolving. The severity of the injury to the surrounding soft tissues influences the timing and the method of fixation. Minimal invasive techniques continue to dominate our philosophy of reduction and reconstruction whereas augmentation of depressed intra-articular fragments remains an accepted strategy to maintain reduction and prevent secondary collapse. Locking plates, conventional plates and fine wire fixators all have been used successfully with satisfactory outcomes. In this article we report on the latest advances made in the management of these complex injuries.

Ilizarov management of Schatzker IV to VI fractures of the tibial plateau

This study aimed to determine the long-term functional, clinical and radiological outcomes in patients with Schatzker IV to VI fractures of the tibial plateau treated with an Ilizarov frame. Clinical, functional and radiological assessment was carried out at a minimum of one year post-operatively. A cohort of 105 patients (62 men, 43 women) with a mean age of 49 years (15 to 87) and a mean follow-up of 7.8 years (1 to 19) were reviewed. There were 18 type IV, 10 type V and 77 type VI fractures. All fractures united with a mean time to union of 20.1 weeks (10.6 to 42.3). No patient developed a deep infection. The median range of movement (ROM) of the knee was 110o and the median Iowa score was 85.

Our study demonstrates good long-term functional outcome with no deep infection; spanning the knee had no detrimental effect on the ROM or functional outcome.

High-energy fractures of the tibial plateau may be treated effectively with a fine wire Ilizarov fixator.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1693–7.

Management of Proximal Tibia Fractures Using Wire Based Circular External Fixator

INTRODUCTION

Management of high grade proximal tibia or tibial plateau fractures is often associated with complications. The use of wire fixators for the definitive treatment of such fractures entails a minimally invasive technique of insertion that gives good fracture reduction and stability combined with minimal postoperative complications.

AIM

To assess the outcome of treatment of such fractures by the use of Joshi's external stabilization system (JESS), which is a wire based, circular external fixator system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective, uncontrolled study was done using JESS on 20 consecutive patients of high energy fractures of the tibial plateau, classified according to the Schatzker's classification as type VI.

RESULTS

In this series, road traffic accidents accounted for most of the injuries (n=12), while pedestrian accidents (n=4), injury due to fall from height (n=3) and injury due to fall while playing (n=1) were the other modes of injury. The mean patient age was 39.4 years. The mean follow up period was 24 weeks. In this study, using Knee society score evaluation, excellent results were seen in 12 patients (60%), good results were seen in 5 patients (25%), fair in 2 patients (10%) and bad in 1 patient (5%). Complications seen were, pin tract infections in two cases (10%) which resolved with dressings and oral antibiotics and one case of non-union (5%), in which the tibial plateau fracture extended into proximal 1/3 of the tibial shaft with severe comminution. No other complication was encountered.

CONCLUSION

JESS is a simple, inexpensive and useful technique in the management of high grade tibial plateau fractures.

The effect of HIV infection on the incidence and severity of circular external fixator pin track sepsis: a retrospective comparative study of 229 patients

Pin track sepsis is a common complication of circular external fixation. HIV status has been implicated as an independent risk factor for the development of pin track infection and has been cited as a reason not to attempt complex limb reconstruction in HIV-positive patients. This retrospective review of patients treated with circular external fixators looked at the incidence of pin track sepsis in HIV-positive, HIV-negative and patients whose HIV status was unknown. The records of 229 patients, 40 of whom were HIV-positive, were reviewed. The overall incidence of pin track sepsis was 22.7 %. HIV infection did not affect the incidence of pin track sepsis (p = 0.9). The severity of pin track sepsis was not influenced by HIV status (p = 0.9) or CD4 count (p = 0.2). With the employment of meticulous pin insertion techniques and an effective postoperative pin track care protocol, circular external fixation can be used safely in HIV-positive individuals.

A staged surgical treatment outcome of type 3 open tibial fractures

Aim. In these case series which are about type 3 open tibial fractures formed with three different high energy trauma etiologies in different parts of tibia. We aimed to assess our three-stage treatment approach and discuss final results of our elective surgery management with three different fixation methods. Patients and Methods. We assessed 19 patients with type 3 open tibial fractures between 2009 and 2012. Our treatment protocol consisted of three stages. Early intervention in operating room, which including vascular repairs or soft tissue closure, was done if necessary. Definitive surgery was performed using internal or external fixation in the first 15 days. Patients were followed up for at least one year. Last conditions of all our cases were evaluated according to modified Johner and Wruhs criteria. Results. Nine cases were type 3A, seven cases were type 3B, and three cases were type 3C in terms of fracture typing. All patients were followed up for at least one year and mean follow up time was 15 months. In terms of functional and clinical outcome, six cases were evaluated as excellent, eight cases as good, two cases as fair, and three cases as poor. Discussion. Staged treatment option in type 3 open tibial fractures seems to be a good method in reducing complication and achieving the best result. We think that definitive staged treatment protocol including internal fixation with plating or intramedullary nailing (IMN) of the fractures is a reliable method, especially to avoid complications as a result of external fixator and to provide patient rapport.

Bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated with fine-wire circular external fixation

Bicondylar tibial plateau fractures are serious injuries to a major weight-bearing joint. These injuries are often associated with severe soft tissue injuries that complicate surgical management. We reviewed 54 consecutive patients who sustained bicondylar tibial plateau fractures that were treated with limited open reduction and cannulated screw fixation combined with fine-wire circular external fixation. Forty-six patients met the inclusion criteria of this retrospective review. Eight patients were excluded because they did not complete a minimum of 1-year follow-up. Thirty-six patients had Schatzker type-VI, and ten patients had Schatzker type-V fractures. All fractures were united without loss of reduction; there were no incidences of wound complications, osteomyelitis or septic arthritis. The average Knee Society Clinical Rating Score was 81.6, translating to good clinical results. Minor pin track infection was the most common complication encountered. This review concludes that fine-wire circular external fixation, combined with limited open reduction and cannulated screw fixation, consistently produces good functional results without serious complications.

Outcome of Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures

BACKGROUND

Schatzker type V and VI tibial fractures are complex injuries, usually treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using dual plates or ring fixators. ORIF has the advantage of not requiring pin tract care, but has a higher infection rate, especially in open fractures. We have combined the advantages of these two methods to treat these difficult fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten Schatzker type V and 11 Schatzker type VI fractures were treated between 2006 and 2010. ORIF with dual plates was performed, only if there was marked articular displacement (> 2 mm) in a closed fracture. All other fractures including open fractures and closed fractures with soft tissue compromise or minimal articular displacement were treated with ring fixators. The outcomes were analyzed and documented using the Honkonen and Jarvinen subjective, clinical, functional, and radiological criteria and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC).

RESULTS

Nine closed fractures with marked articular displacement (> 2 mm) were treated with dual plates. Eight closed fractures with minimal articular displacement (< 2 mm) and poor skin condition and four open fractures were treated with ring fixators. The mean follow-up period was 2 ½ years. The mean postoperative knee flexion was 128°. All patients could walk, jump, and climb steps. 90% could squat, though only 50% could duck walk properly. Radiologically, 85% had a plateau tilt of less than 5°, 92% had an articular step of less than 2 mm, and a residual articular widening of less than 5 mm. There were no major infections. Two patients had minor pin tract infections and two requested that their plates be removed subsequently.

CONCLUSION

The protocol used to treat Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures has had excellent results and we suggest that all open fractures be treated with ring fixators and that ORIF should be done only for closed fractures with marked displacement.

Tibial plateau fractures: A review

Tibial plateau fractures are uncommon injuries of the proximal tibia which vary in severity from minimally displaced stable injuries to high energy complex fractures with significant articular and metaphyseal comminution and severe associated soft tissue injuries. Following initial assessment and appropriate investigation a number of management options are available to the treating surgeon. We discuss the presentation, initial management and investigation as well as outlining the various treatment options with an emphasis on operative treatment. We further discuss the common complications and outcomes following tibial plateau fracture.

Surgical management of tibial tubercle fractures in association with tibial plateau fractures fixed by direct wiring to a locking plate

Tibial tubercle fractures disrupting the extensor mechanism of the knee can occur in association with complex tibial plateau fractures (AO type 41A, B, C). The management of these fractures can be difficult; a stable repair of the tibial tubercle fragment is essential if the extensor mechanism is to be reconstituted. There are few reported techniques described to manage tibial tubercle fractures in conjunction with complex proximal tibial injuries. Traditionally, tibial tubercle fractures have been repaired by lagging the tubercle fragment to the posterior cortex of the tibia using 1 or more screws. However, the cortex of the posterior tibia does not always offer good purchase for screw fixation, particularly in osteopenic bone. Additionally, in complex proximal tibial fractures, comminution often extends posteriorly, further complicating stable lag screw fixation. Placement of an anteroposterior lag screw can also be complicated by "screw traffic" if there are a large number of screws fixing the primary fracture. In this article, we report a novel surgical approach for the management of tibial tubercle fracture fragments occurring in association with complex proximal tibial fractures. Using this technique, the tibial tubercle fragment is stabilized by wiring it directly to the screws of a locking plate. It allows for reduction and fixation of the tibial tubercle fragment that is stable enough to allow immediate full active range of motion. Over the past 5 years, we have applied this technique in 16 patients. Our preliminary results using this new technique have demonstrated a high rate of clinical and radiographic union with near normal return of extensor mechanism function.