Sheshagiri V1, Arunodhaya Siddartha2, Siddalingamurthy3, Purushotam Sastry4, Mruthyunjaya5, Anubhav Verma6
INTRODUCTION
Fractures of the tibial plateau are the result of high energy trauma. Because of the nature of the trauma and the relative high frequency of soft tissue injuries, the rate of complications is high. Complications include joint stiffness, compartment syndrome, malunion, skin loss, osteomyelitis, and possible amputation. The Ilizarov external fixator helps in minimizing these complications by allowing early mobilization and weight bearing, minimal soft tissue injury and blood loss along with a stable fixation
MATERIAL AND METHODS
In our prospective study of 20 patients which included adults with open/closed Schatzker type 5 and 6 tibial plateau fractures, we studied the outcome following surgery with Ilizarov external fixation using the modified Hohl and Luck criteria which includes functional (extensor lag, valgus or varus instability, knee range of movement, walking distance and pain) and radiological parameters (valgus/varus deformity, depression of articular surface and osteoarthritis).
RESULTS
All patients (n = 20) started weight bearing the day after the surgery. Functionally, 55% (n=11) had a excellent result, 40% (n=8) had a good result. 75% (n=15) had an excellent result radiologically. 3 patients out of 20 had a pin tract infection and one patient had an early implant removal due to non-compliance. CONCLUSION Treatment of open/ closed tibial plateau fractures with Ilizarov circular external ring fixator has proven to be advantageous in terms of early weight bearing and minimal soft tissue compromise. Excellent Radiological outcome is not necessarily associated with similar functional outcome.
