The anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach for plating posterolateral tibial plateau fractures: A novel surgical technique

ObjectiveThe posterolateral (PL) tibial plateau quadrant is laterally covered by the fibular head and posteriorly covered by a mass of muscle ligament and important neurovascular structures. There are several limitations in exposing and fixing the PL tibial plateau fractures using a posterior approach. The aim of this study is to present a novel anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach for plating PL tibial plateau fractures.MethodsFive fresh and ten preserved knee specimens were dissected to measure the following parameters:1) the vertical distance from the apex of the fibular head to the lateral plateau surface, 2) the transverse distance between the PL platform and fibula collateral ligament (FCL), and 3) the tension of the FCL in different knee flexion positions. Clinically, isolated PL quadrant tibial plateau fractures were treated via an anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach and lateral rafting plate fixation. The outcome of the patients was assessed after a short to medium follow-up period.ResultsThe distance from the apex of the fibular head to the lateral condylar surface was 12.2 ± 1.6 mm on average. With the knee extended and the FCL tensioned, the transverse distance between the PL platform and the FCL was 6.7 ± 1.1 mm. With the knee flexed to 60° and the FCL was in the most relaxed position, the distance increased to 21.1 ± 3.0 mm. Clinically, a series of 7 cases of PL tibial plateau fractures were treated via this anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach. The patient was placed in a lateral decubitus position with the knee flexed to approximately 60 degrees. After the posterior retraction of the FCL, the plate was placed more posteriorly to provide a raft or horizontal belt fixation of the PL tibial plateau fragment. After an average of 14.3 months of follow up, the knee range of motion(ROM) was 121.4°±8.8° (range: 105°-135°), the HSS score was 96.7 ± 2.6 (range: 90-100), and the SMFA dysfunction score was 22.4 ± 3.8 (range: 16-28) points.ConclusionThe anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach can provide direct visualization of the posterolateral tibial plateau quadrant and put the plate more posteriorly to provide a raft for the fragments such that good clinical outcomes can be anticipated.     

Reinforcement strategy for lateral rafting plate fixation in posterolateral column fractures of the tibial plateau: The magic screw technique

BackgroundA posterolateral column fracture of the tibial plateau (PLCF) is not uncommon, especially lateral and bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. Currently, there is no consensus on the methods of surgical treatment for PLCF, including the surgical approach or the fixation strategy. Though various posterior approaches have been explored and can allow posterior buttress plate fixation, the necessity of a posterior approach with fixation for PLCFs is increasingly questioned. Meanwhile, there is no literature to analyse the morphological features of PLCFs. None of the available surgical techniques can solve all of the problems of PLCFs.MethodsFrom February 2016 to June 2016, an inconsecutive series of 16 patients who suffered Schatzker type II tibial plateau fractures involving the posterolateral column were selected based on an analysis of the morphological characteristics of PLCFs. The patients were all treated by lateral rafting plate fixation with magic screw implantation through the extended lateral approach.ResultsAccording to PLCF morphology, 4 patients had mild slope-type depression fractures (MSDF) of the articular surface, and the other 12 patients had block-type splitting fractures (BSF). After a 12-month follow-up period, there were no complications related to the fixation technique and no significant changes in limb alignment. At the final follow-up, the average range of motion (ROM) of the affected knees was 2.3°−125°, and the average HSS score was 94.2.ConclusionsThe selected patients who suffered Schatzker type II fractures involving the posterolateral column could be successfully treated via lateral rafting plate fixation with the magic screw technique. For PLCF treatment, magic screw fixation is a valuable technique that may reduce the utilization of posterior approaches and posterior fixations.     

Frequency and fracture morphology of the posteromedial fragment in bicondylar tibial plateau fracture patterns

OBJECTIVES: Bicondylar tibial plateau fracture management remains therapeutically challenging, partly because of multiplanar articular comminution. This study was performed to evaluate the frequency and morphologic characteristics of the posteromedial fragment in this injury pattern. DESIGN: Retrospective chart and radiographic review. SETTING: Urban Level 1 university trauma center. PATIENTS: Fifty-seven patients sustaining 57 Orthopedic Trauma Association (OTA) C-Type bicondylar tibial plateau fractures formed the study group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Between May 2000 and March 2003, 170 OTA C-Type bicondylar tibial plateau fractures were identified using an orthopaedic database. One hundred and forty-six fractures had computed tomographic (CT) scans performed prior to definitive fixation and were reviewed using the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). Sixty-six (45.2%) injuries had fractures that involved the medial articular surface. Nine with suboptimal CTs were excluded, leaving 57 injuries for review. Forty-two patients demonstrated coronal plane posteromedial fragments. Morphologic evaluation of the posteromedial fragment included articular surface area, maximum posterior cortical height (PCH), and sagittal fracture angle (SFA). RESULTS: Forty-two of 57 injuries (74%) demonstrated a posteromedial fragment that comprised a mean of 58% of the articular surface of the medial tibial plateau (range, 19%-98%) and a mean of 23% of the entire tibial plateau articular surface (range, 8%-47%). Mean posteromedial fragment height was 42 mm (range, 16-59 mm), and mean sagittal fracture angle was 81 degrees (range, 33 degrees to 112 degrees). Six patients demonstrated fracture patterns not accurately identified by the AO/OTA (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association) fracture classification system. CONCLUSIONS: A posteromedial fragment was observed in nearly one third of the bicondylar plateau fractures evaluated. The morphologic features of this fragment may have clinical implications when using currently available laterally applied fixed-angle screw/plate implants to stabilize these injuries. Alternate or supplementary fixation methods may be required when managing this injury pattern.     

改良前外侧入路治疗胫骨平台后外侧塌陷骨折

目的 :探讨改良前外侧入路治疗胫骨平台后外侧塌陷骨折的疗效。方法 :2011年2月至2013年1月,共收治13例单纯的胫骨平台后外侧塌陷骨折,男8例,女5例;年龄28~59岁,平均49.2岁。随访时检查膝关节功能,摄X线片,评估骨折愈合情况,记录随访过程中出现的并发症。采用Rasmussen放射学评分标准对骨折复位情况进行评估,根据末次随诊结果采用Rasmussen功能评分标准评定膝关节功能。结果:所有患者获随访,时间6~18个月,平均13.7个月;骨折愈合时间11~17周,平均15.1周。随访期间未见复位丢失,1例出现足背麻木,足背伸力及伸趾力减弱;1例出现切口红肿,少量淡黄色渗液,经扩大创口,引流换药后治愈。Rasmussen放射学评分13~18分,平均(16.50±0.67)分;Rasmussen功能评分13~30分,平均(25.20±2.21)分;膝关节活动度0°~135°,平均运动范围(125.3±9.3)°。结论:改良前外侧入路治疗胫骨平台后外侧塌陷骨折,暴露充分,复位及固定满意,不会出现血管神经损伤,术后膝关节稳定性及功能恢复好。     

Updated Three-Column Concept in surgical treatment for tibial plateau fractures – A prospective cohort study of 287 patients

PurposeThis study introduces an updated Three-Column Concept for the classification and treatment of complex tibial plateau fractures. A combined preoperative assessment of fracture morphology and injury mechanism is utilized to determine surgical approach, implant placement and fixation sequence. The effectiveness of this updated concept is demonstrated through evaluation of both clinical and radiographic outcome measures.Patients and methodsFrom 2008 to 2012, 355 tibial plateau fractures were treated using the updated Three-Column Concept. Standard radiographic and computed tomography imaging are used to systematically assess and classify fracture patterns as follows: (1) identify column(s) injured and locate associated articular depression or comminution, (2) determine injury mechanism including varus/valgus and flexion/extension forces, and (3) determine surgical approach(es) as well as the location and function of applied fixation. Quality and maintenance of reduction and alignment, fracture healing, complications, and functional outcomes were assessed.Results287 treated fractures were followed up for a mean period of 44.5 months (range: 22–96). The mean time to radiographic bony union and full weight-bearing was 13.5 weeks (range: 10–28) and 14.8 weeks (range: 10–26) respectively. The average functional Knee Society Score was 93.0 (range: 80–95). The average range of motion of the affected knees was 1.5–121.5°. No significant difference was found in knee alignment between immediate and 18-month post-operative measurements. Additionally, no significant difference was found in functional scores and range of motion between one, two and three-column fracture groups. Twelve patients suffered superficial infection, one had limited skin necrosis and two had wound dehiscence, that healed with nonoperative management. Intraoperative vascular injury occurred in two patients. Fixation of failure was not observed in any of the fractures treated.ConclusionAn updated Three-Column Concept assessing fracture morphology and injury mechanism in tandem can be used to guide surgical treatment of tibial plateau fractures. Limited results demonstrate successful application of biologically friendly fixation constructs while avoiding fixation failure and associated complications of both simple and complex tibial plateau fractures.Level of evidenceLevel II, prospective cohort study.     

Posteromedial supine approach for reduction and fixation of medial and bicondylar tibial plateau fractures

Traditionally, both high- and low-energy tibial plateau fractures are classified on the basis of the anteroposterior (AP) plain radiograph. Several fracture types exist that are not included in currently used classification schemes, including posteromedial shear and coronal plane fractures. These fracture types can appear as isolated fracture lines or as a part of a bicondylar plateau fracture. The purpose of this study is to describe a posteromedial supine surgical approach and antiglide plating of the posteromedial fragment, either as a single approach for a unicondylar posteromedial fracture or in combination with a second lateral approach for bicondylar fractures. We have used this technique in 27 patients that had posteromedial shear fractures on preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans, in the setting of a Level I trauma center. Ten were isolated medial plateau fractures, and 17 had bicondylar fractures. Radiographic analysis was done for all patients, and clinical outcomes were available in 19 out of 27 patients through phone interviews and chart reviews. Mean follow-up was 3.5 years (range 1-12 years). Seventy-five percent of patients had anatomic or good reductions. The average Oxford knee score was 19.9 +/- 5.4 (12-29). Average range of motion was 0 to 120 (0-90 to 0-130). The articular malreduction (>5-mm gap or step-off) rate was 4%, and there were no wound complications. Posteromedial shear fractures of the tibial plateau are not uncommon. This pattern is assessable using the preoperative CT scan. A supine posteromedial approach with antiglide plating provides a good clinical solution for these complex injuries.     

The extended posterolateral approach for split depression lateral tibial plateau fractures extending into the posterior column: 2 years follow up results of a prospective study

ObjectiveTo prospectively study the outcome of surgically treated split depression lateral tibial plateau fractures extending into the posterior column using the extended posterolateral approach.MethodsTwenty-one patients with split depression lateral tibial plateau fractures (AO: 41-B3) with extension into the posterior column were treated with open reduction and internal fixation through an extended posterolateral approach with osteotomy of the fibular neck ± Gerdy tubercle. Follow up radiographs was assessed for quality of articular reduction and limb axis. Functional assessment was performed at last follow up using the Tegner–Lysholm score. Complications pertaining to the surgical approach were recorded.ResultsThe approach was performed in 15 patients with a fibular neck osteotomy alone and 6 patients required a Gerdy's tubercle osteotomy also. All fractures and osteotomies had united. Anatomical articular reduction was achieved in 16 patients. Radiological limb alignment was restored in all patients except for a reversed posterior slope in 1 patient. Arthritic changes were seen in 3 patients. The mean Tegner–Lysholm score was 87.3 (range: 76–95) at last follow up. No specific complications related to the surgical approach like common peroneal nerve injury and lateral instability of the knee was encountered.ConclusionThe extended posterolateral approach offers excellent exposure posterior to the fibular head to perform articular reduction and fixation achieving satisfactory radiological and functional results in split depression lateral tibial plateau fractures extending into the posterior column.     

Analysis of medial tibial plateau fracture injury patterns using quantitative 3D measurements

BackgroundThe Wahlquist system classifies tibial medial plateau fractures into three types based on the sagittal fracture line location, with type C at highest risk of complications. However, the injury mechanism of tibial medial plateau fractures, especially tibial rotation movement, remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to determine the injury patterns of medial tibial plateau fractures using 3D model simulation and quantitative 3D measurements.MethodsSeventy-eight consecutive AO/OTA type 41-B tibial plateau fractures were retrospectively analyzed using CT-based 3D models and quantitative 3D measurements. The knee posture at the moment of fracture occurrence was simulated, and various knee angles in the sagittal, coronal, and axial planes were measured to evaluate the mechanism of medial tibial plateau fracture. The mean valgus-varus, hyperextension-flexion, and internal-external rotation angles were determined, and the chi-square test was used for comparisons of categorical varus and valgus force data to determine the main force direction in Wahlquist type C fractures.ResultsAngle measurements in the coronal planes showed that 28 (35.9%) medial tibial plateau fractures resulted from a varus injury pattern, while 50 fractures (64.1%) resulted from a valgus pattern. Valgus force produced significantly more Wahlquist type C fractures (37 of 50 fractures) than varus force (2 of 28 fractures) (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the cases of patients with type C fractures between the tibial internal and external rotation injury patterns(P > 0.05).ConclusionsValgus force was the cause of 64.1% of the medial tibia plateau fractures in the present cohort. Furthermore, valgus force produced more Wahlquist type C fractures than varus force. The present findings will help orthopedists understand the injury mechanism of the Wahlquist classification system, and will facilitate the identification of the common features of medial tibial plateau fractures induced by specific injury patterns.     

Triple plating of tibia in a complex bicondylar tibial plateau fracture

High-energy tibial plateau fracture poses a significant challenge and difficulty for orthopaedic surgeons. Fracture of tibial plateau involves major weight bearing joint and may alter knee kinematics. Anatomic reconstruction of the proximal tibial articular surfaces, restoration of the limb axis （limb alignment） and stable fixation permitting early joint motion are the goals of the treatment. In cases of complex bicondylar tibial plateau fractures, isolated lateral plating is frequently associated with varus malalignment and better results have been obtained with bilateral plating through dual incisions. However sometimes a complex type of bicondylar tibialplateau fractures is encountered in which medial plateau has a biplaner fracture in posterior coronal plane as well as sagittal plane. In such fractures it is imperative to fix the medial plateau with buttressing in both planes. One such fracture pattern of the proximal tibia managed by triple plating through dual posteromedial and anterolateral incisions is discussed in this case report with emphasis on mechanisms of this type of injury, surgical approach and management.     

钢板结合髓内钉治疗胫骨单髁伴同侧胫骨干中、远段骨折

 目的 探讨钢板结合髓内钉治疗同侧胫骨平台单髁伴胫骨干中、远段骨折的可行性和临床疗效。方法 2003年 5月至 2008年11月,钢板结合髓内钉固定治疗胫骨平台单髁伴同侧胫骨干骨折21例,男15 例,女6 例;年龄20～55岁,平均34岁。按Schatzer分类,Ⅰ型4例、Ⅱ型11例、Ⅲ型6例。胫骨干骨折按部位分型,胫骨干中段骨折13例、中下1∕3骨折8例。复位后,先钢板固定胫骨平台再髓内钉固定胫骨干19例,先髓内钉固定胫骨干再钢板固定胫骨平台2例。结果 所有病均例获得随访,随访时间0.9～4年,平均2.2年。所有患者均获骨性愈合,胫骨平台平均愈合时间为12周;胫骨干骨折平均愈合时间为29周,3例患者胫骨干骨折延迟愈合,拆除交锁钉使之动力化后愈合。1例胫骨平台未能解剖复位导致骨折畸形愈合。根据HSS膝关节评分标准[2],优17例(80.95%)、良3例(14.29%)、中1例(4.76%)。结论 注意一些技术要点,应用两种熟悉的手术技巧,钢板结合髓内钉能够成功治疗胫骨平台单髁伴同侧胫骨干骨折。     

Posterolateral and anterolateral approaches to unicondylar posterolateral tibial plateau fractures: A comparative study

Background

Lateral tibial plateau fractures that are located posterolaterally are difficult to reduce through an anterolateral surgical approach because of the lack of direct visualisation of the fracture. This study compared the results of unicondylar posterolateral tibial plateau fractures in two patient cohorts: one treated through a posterolateral direct approach and the other through an anterolateral indirect approach.

Patients and methods

All nine patients admitted to our hospital, a tertiary care, urban, public hospital in Australia, from 2007 to 2010 with unicondylar posterolateral tibial plateau fractures were treated through a direct posterolateral transfibular approach and prospectively studied. All eight patients admitted from 2004 to 2007 with unicondylar posterolateral tibial plateau fractures were treated through an indirect anterolateral approach and retrospectively reviewed. Fracture reduction and maintenance of reduction were assessed radiographically over 2 years. Knee function was assessed clinically and using the Lysholm score.

Results

Fractures managed through a direct posterolateral transfibular approach were reduced with no measurable articular step on standard radiography and had no loss of reduction over time. By contrast, fractures treated through an indirect anterolateral approach had a median postoperative articular step of 5.5 mm (interquartile range = 4.5). These displacements worsened over time in six of the eight patients. At 2 years, patients treated through a direct approach had significantly better Lysholm scores than those treated through an indirect approach.

Conclusion

This study suggests that a direct posterolateral transfibular approach to unicondylar posterolateral tibial plateau fractures results in improved reduction, stabilisation and functional outcomes at early follow-up compared to an indirect anterolateral approach.     

Correlation of parameters on preoperative CT images with intra-articular soft-tissue injuries in acute tibial plateau fractures: A review of 132 patients receiving ARIF

IntroductionTibial plateau fractures often occur in conjunction with soft-tissue injuries of knees. The hypothesis of this study is that parameters of CT imaging can predict intra-articular soft-tissue injuries.Patients and methodsPatients who underwent arthroscopically assisted reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) for acute tibial plateau fractures performed by a single orthopedic surgeon between 2005 and 2015 were included in this retrospective study. Patients with concomitant ipsilateral femoral fractures, who had received revision surgery or who had undergone index surgery more than 30 days from the event were excluded. We measured lateral plateau depression and widening, medial plateau depression and displacement, and column involvement observed on preoperative CT scans. Intra-articular soft-tissue injuries were diagnosed based on findings from knee arthroscopy. The correlation of imaging parameters with soft-tissue injuries was analyzed by the area under a receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve and multivariate logistic regression.ResultsOne-hundred and thirty-two patients were enrolled in the study. The average age was 45.7 ± 13.1 years (range: 18–75 years). Lateral tibial plateau depressions >11 mm were significantly associated with increased risk of lateral meniscus tears (p = 0.001). However, there was no significant threshold of lateral tibial plateau widening that could be used to predict lateral meniscus tear. Greater risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) avulsion fracture was observed in younger patients, patients with high-energy-pattern tibial plateau fractures, patients with fractures involving anteromedial or posterolateral columns, and patients with medial tibial plateau displacement >3 mm (p < 0.05).ConclusionMeasuring lateral tibial plateau depression and column involvement on preoperative CT scans can help predict a higher risk of lateral meniscus tear and ACL avulsion fracture respectively in patients with acute tibial plateau fractures.     

Flexion Tibial Plateau Fractures: 3‐dimensional CT Simulation‐based Subclassification by Injury Pattern

ObjectiveTo identify different injury patterns of flexion tibial plateau fractures (FTPFs) with 3D CT simulation technology. The association between these hypothesized injury patterns and concomitant injuries was also investigated.MethodsThe tibial plateau fracture cases of 297 patients consecutively treated at our trauma center from August 2016 to December 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 108 patients with FTPFs were enrolled. 3D CT simulation technology was used to reconstruct the position of the knee joint at the time of tibial plateau fracture. The 3D segments for the tibia and femur were created separately, the tibial 3D segment was aligned with the articular surface of the femoral condyle, and then the corresponding injury patterns were deduced. The magnitudes of translation and rotation incurred after the segments were repositioned were calculated by Mimics software. The associations between the hypothesized injury patterns and concomitant injuries were compared.ResultsFTPFs were classified into two groups according to the fracture region: unicondylar FTPFs (type I) and bicondylar FTPFs (type II). According to the injury patterns simulated in this study, these two types of FTPFs were further subclassified into five subgroups. Type I FTPFs were categorized into two subtypes based on the degree of rotation in the coronal plane (varus < 0°; valgus > 0°): pure flexion‐varus fractures (type IA, −10.23° ± 2.11°, 3.7%, 4/108) and pure flexion‐valgus fractures (type IB, 11.54° ± 2.63°, 26.9%, 29/108). Type II FTPFs were divided into three subgroups based on the degree of rotation in the axial plane (internal rotation >10°; flexion‐neutral −10° to 10°; external rotation <−10°): flexion‐neutral fractures (type IIA, 2.01° ± 3.43°, 13.0%, 14/108), flexion‐internal rotation fractures (type IIB, 23.66° ± 6.17°, 35.2%, 38/108) and flexion‐external rotation fractures (type IIC, −16.23° ± 4.27°, 21.3%, 23/108). The incidence of posterolateral quadrant collapse fractures among type IIB fractures was significantly increased relative to that of type IIC fractures (P < 0.001). The incidence of posterolateral quadrant split fractures, anterolateral quadrant fractures and proximal fibular fractures among type IIC fractures was significantly higher than that among type IIB fractures (P < 0.001). The number of these concomitant injuries significantly differed between type IIB and type IIC fractures (P < 0.001).Conclusion3D CT simulation‐based subclassification according to the pattern of injury can help surgeons better understand FTPFs and select an appropriate treatment strategy.     

Medial and lateral segond fractures in a skeletally immature patient: a radiographic marker for the multiply injured knee

Marginal fractures of the medial tibial plateau have been reported in the literature as a secondary type of Segond fracture. Some reports described this entity in the setting of combined injuries such as root avulsions of the medial meniscus, complete disruption of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and tears of the medial meniscus and medial collateral ligament. It has been postulated that medial marginal fractures are secondary to compression of the medial aspect of the femoral condyle and tibial plateau with a corresponding posterolateral corner injury. However, this mechanism of injury may not always be as straightforward.This article presents a case of an alternate injury pattern in a skeletally immature patient. A 16-year-old boy sustained a varus force and twisting injury to his knee, resulting in radiographic evidence of multiple avulsion fractures of the knee, including a fibular epiphyseal avulsion fracture and medial and lateral Segond fractures. Usually, the avulsion fractures serve as markers for significant ligamentous injuries in adult patients, but our patient had minimal injury to the PCL, ACL, and posterolateral corner. Further physical examination and imaging studies revealed an anterior horn root avulsion, meniscocapsular separation, and anterior cortical rim fracture. A combination of imaging modalities helped us further characterize the injury pattern to devise the optimal surgical plan, especially the fixation of the anterior cortical fracture of the tibia.     

Gastrocnemius raphe split approach for complex proximal tibia fractures—Applicability and advantages

Posterior column fractures of the tibial plateau have been considered problem injury as many authors reported poor outcome. Commonly used surgical approaches have limitations in addressing complex fractures involving the posterior column, leading to malreduction and subsequent leading to chronic posteroinferior subluxation, arthritis and chronic pain. There is thus a need for a surgical approach, which can provide adequate exposure to both quadrant of posterior column, in addition to allowing sufficient space for fracture manipulation and implant placement. The authors have evaluated the applicability of the posterior midline gastrocnemius raphe split approach to deal with coomplex posterior column fragment in tibial plateau fractures.A midline gastrocnemius splitting approach was used alone or along with other approaches in 22 patients with tibial plateau fractures involving the posterior column. The mean age of the patients was 36 years and the female to male ratio was 1:6 (3 and 18). At an average follow up of 12 months (Range 6–14 months), Radiological evidence of union was noted at an average 13 weeks (Range, 10-15weeks) and no loss of reduction was seen at follow-up. All cases had regained painless knee flexion that averaged 120°.The midline gastrocnemius splitting approach is a versatile approach, which allows adequate exposure on either side of the posterior tibial plateau. This can easily combined with other approaches, where the anteromedial and anterolateral coloumn or associated ligament injury demand attention.     

胫骨平台外后壁骨折的治疗

目的 探讨胫骨平台外后壁骨折的手术治疗方法。方法 采用延长的外侧途径并腓骨颈截骨显露骨折，应用异形钢板松质骨螺丝钉联合固定治疗13例胫骨平台外后壁骨折。结果 13例均获得随访，平均随访26个月，患膝关节功能评价按Hohl评分标准：优10例，良3例。结论 以延长的外侧途径及腓骨颈截骨为入路可充分显露胫骨平台外后壁骨折端，完成骨折的解剖复位，获得良好的治疗效果，值得临床推广使用。     

Proximal avulsion of five ligaments and revised diagonal principle in tibial plateau fractures

PurposeThe aim of the study was to analyze the incidence of proximal avulsion of the five main ligaments and to revise the diagonal tension/compression concept in tibial plateau fractures.MethodsComputed tomographic images of 1263 cases of tibial plateau fractures were retrospectively analyzed by the OTA/AO classification and four-column nine-segment classification. The correlation between proximal avulsion of five ligaments and the injury mechanism was analyzed.ResultsIn total, 1263 tibial plateau fractures in 1253 patients were included. A total of 92 cases (7.3%) associated with proximal avulsions were identified among the 1263 tibial plateau fracture cases obtained from our institution's database. The 92 avulsions occurred in 82 patients, among whom 10 patients had two different avulsions in a single knee. The incidence of proximal avulsion fracture of the medial and lateral collateral ligament was 3.6% (45/1263) and 2.1% (26/1263), respectively. The incidence of avulsion of the anterior cruciate ligament and avulsion of the posterior cruciate ligament was much lower at 0.2% (2/1263) and 0.1% (1/1263), respectively. Proximal avulsion of the patellar ligament occurred in 18 cases (incidence rate = 1.4%). Several combinations of injuries, composed of distal tibial plateau fractures and proximal avulsion of ligaments, were identified.ConclusionsAmong the patients with tibial plateau fracture, the incidence of proximal avulsion of the five ligaments was 7.3% (92/1263). The four-column and nine-segment classification is an exhaustive method for recording injuries in these ligaments. The revised diagonal injury concept is useful for understanding the injury mechanism and choosing the appropriate surgical strategy.     

Posterior bicondylar tibial plateau fractures

OBJECTIVE: To present a case series of patients with posterior bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated by direct fracture exposure and fixation through dual incisions. DESIGN: Retrospective clinical study. SETTING: Level 1 trauma centers. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Eight patients were identified that had posterior bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. Two patients had depressed posterolateral tibial plateau fractures with contained defects and did not have direct fracture exposure. One patient died of medical problems leaving 5 patients who underwent direct fracture exposure, reduction, and fixation. INTERVENTION: Posteromedial followed by posterolateral open reduction and internal fixation of posterior bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. RESULTS: At 6 to 24 months follow-up (mean 13 months), all patients returned to near full activities, each with aching after prolonged standing (8-hour shift). Range of motion averaged 2 degrees to 121 degrees of flexion. Three of 5 returned to manual labor jobs; the others were not employed at the time of injury. CONCLUSIONS: Posterior bicondylar tibial plateau fractures have a high association with lateral meniscal pathology and can be associated with anterior cruciate ligament injury. Reduction of the posterior plateau condyles is easiest with the knee in full extension. Flexion contractures can be a problem, and patients should be encouraged to regain/maintain knee extension. The dual-incision approach to these challenging fractures can result in good to excellent knee function for these patients.     

Joint depression in tibial plateau fractures: To bone graft or not to bone graft?

Tibial plateau fractures with significant joint depression and metaphyseal comminution pose a challenge. In order to prevent the collapse of the articular surface, some authors propose filling the subchondral void created during reduction with bone graft/substitute, which can add further complications. We present two cases of tibial plateau fractures with severe joint depression of the lateral condyle; both treated with a periarticular rafting construct, in one caseadditional bone substitute was used and in the other case no bone graft/substitute was used; their final outcomes were reported. The treatment of joint depression in tibial plateau fractures using periarticular rafting constructs without bone graft, may be also a valid option, to achieve good final results without the morbidity associated with the use of bone graft/substitutes.