Functional Outcome of Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures Using Hybrid External Fixators

G A Rajmohan; M C Chinnadurai

G A Rajmohan Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur
M C Chinnadurai Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur

Keywords: Hybrid external fixation, complex tibial fractures, NEER’s score, compound fracture, Schatzker type 5 and 6

Abstract

Introduction: Tibial plateau fractures are associated with communition and soft tissue injury and are usually managed with ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation). The hybrid external fixer helps to reduce the associated complications by allowing early mobilization and weight bearing, minimal soft tissue damage, and stable fixation. In this study, we assessed the complications, clinical outcome scores, and postoperative range of knee movements associated with Schatzker type 5 and 6 tibial fractures.
Aim: To study the functional outcome and role of hybrid external fixators in complex tibial plateau fractures.
Methods: The study included 75 patients with Schatzker type 5 and 6 fractures who underwent open/close reduction with a hybrid external fixator. Informed consent was obtained from all the patients and a 2 months post-operative follow-up was done. The analyses were performed with NEER’s RATING SYSTEM FOR KNEE.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 51.28±14.28 years and a male predominance prevailed. RTA accounted for 68% of the fractures and with hybrid external fixator, excellent results were achieved in 60% of the cases. knee stiffness, pin site infection, malunion and limb shortening were the associated complications.
Conclusion: A promising alternative therapy for high-energy plateau fractures is a hybrid external fixator. It permits a safe fixation of fraction fragments, early joint recovery and the treatment of related soft tissue injuries with minimum complication rates.

Author Biographies

G A Rajmohan, Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur

Associate Professor of Orthopaedics,

M C Chinnadurai, Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur

Assistant Professor of Orthopaedics,

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