Operative treatment of complex posterior tibial plateau fractures via posterior approach

Objective To evaluate the clinical results of operative treatments for the complex posterior tibial plateau fractures via posterior approach. Methods Eleven cases with complex posterior tibial plateau fracture from June 2008 through June 2010 were reviewed retrospectively. There were 7 males and 4females, with age from 33 years to 60 years (average, 47.8 years). According to AO classification, there were 41-B2.2.4 type in 2 cases, 41-B3.1.2 type in 3, 41-B3.3.2 type in 3, 41-B3.1.2 type combined 41-B3.3.2 type in 2, 41-C3.3 type in 1. Carlson posterior lateral approach were used in 5 cases, posterior medial approach were used in 3 cases, and posterior medial and/or lateral approach combined with anterior approach were used in 3 cases. All fractures were fixed with plates. Autogenous ilium grafts were used if necessary.Results All cases were followed up. The average follow-up time was 1.6 years (range, 3-24 months). At the final follow-up visit, bone union was obtained in all cases. The mean Rasmussen score was 16.7 (range, 15-18), and the mean HSS was 86.2 (range, 75-96). The postoperative knee range of motion were 0°-135°, 0°-130° and -10°-125° in 5 cases with posterior lateral plateau fractures, 3 cases with posterior medial plateau fractures and 3 cases with anterior and posterior plateau and intercondylar fractures respectively. There was no vascular and nerve injuries. Loosing or breaking of hardware's was not found. Conclusion The Carlson posterior lateral and/or medial approach is preferred for the complex posterior plateau fractures, with the advantages of direct reduction and stabilization. Key words: Tibial fractures;  Fracture fixation, internal;  Treatment outcome