Tibial plateau fractures fixation using posterior approaches - preliminary results of 12 cases

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe our preliminary results of posterior shearing tibia plateau fractures treated by a direct dorsal approach and plate fixation. METHODS: A consecutive series of twelve patients with tibia plateau fractures treated by direct posterior approach was selected from our database. Conventional radiographies, computed tomography scans and medical records were reviewed. All cases were followed to union, as defined by painless weight bearing and radiographic healing. RESULTS: Between July 2009 and April 2010, our trauma service received 89 tibia plateau fractures and treated 80 (89,9%) operatively. Twelve patients (13,5%) sustained posterior shearing tibia plateau fractures. All fractures were treated through the posterior approach, although 3 required association with an anterolateral approach as well. The mean age of patients was 35 years and mean follow-up was 12 (range 8-23) months. The fractures were classified according to AO/OTA: five 41 B1, four 41 B3, two 41 C1 and one 41 C3. There was one wound dehiscence, managed with local wound care, and one loss of reduction treated by reoperation. No patient sustained neurovascular injury, nonunion, malunions or knee instability. In four cases the reduction was rated as poor (> 2 mm step off), in five cases reduction was rated as imperfect ( 2mm de degrau articular), em 5 casos foi considerada imperfeita (< 2 mm de degrau articular) e em 3 casos obtivemos uma redução anatômica. CONCLUSÃO: Os autores concluem que o uso da abordagem posterior deve ser considerada em casos de fraturas com onde haja componente de cisalhamento posterior do planalto da tíbia. Uma casuística ampliada é necessária para avaliar o real benefício desta abordagem.UNIFESP Departamento de Ortopedia e TraumatologiaUniversidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM) Departamento de OrtopediaUNIFESP, Depto. de Ortopedia e TraumatologiaUNIFESP, EPM, Depto. de OrtopediaSciEL