Epidemiological Characterization of Tibial Plateau Fractures in Five Colombian Clinics

Background: Tibial plateau fractures are traumatic injuries with severities ranging from nondisplaced to complicated fractures. This study describes the epidemiological characteristics of patients with tibial plateau fractures treated in five trauma clinics.Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study included 1,165 patients with tibial plateau fractures treated between December 2015 and May 2017. Subjects were selected from the medical records of five institutions based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Age, sex, laterality, fracture type, trauma mechanism, vehicle type, classification, and associated injuries were assessed via univariate and bivariate analyses. Results: In total, 23.3% of patients with tibial fractures treated during the study period had tibial plateau fractures. Of those affected, 73% were men and 50% were younger than 40 years. Furthermore, 95.7% of fractures were caused by traffic accidents, 82.6% of which involved motorcycles. Fractures were closed in 93.1% of cases, and 78% of subjects had associated injuries. The most common fractures, according to Schatzker classification, were type VI (23%) and V (19.1%) fractures.Conclusions: Tibial plateau fractures are frequent injuries in our setting and mostly occur in men in their 30s and 40s. These fractures are typically caused by motorcycle traffic accidents. Level of Evidence: IV

The Tibial Plateau Map: Fracture Line Morphology of Intra-Articular Proximal Tibial Fractures

The purpose of this study was to characterize the patterns of a large series of tibial plateau fractures with the use of fracture mapping, with regard to different fracture types using the OTA/AO and Schatzker classification. Patients with intra-articular fractures of the tibial plateau were evaluated, using the OTA/AO and Schatzker classification on CT scans. For fracture mapping, the axial slice that completely displayed the tibial joint plane was first identified, then matched to a template congruently, and the fracture lines were identified and reproduced. In addition to epidemiological data (age and gender), the trauma mechanism (high-energy, low-energy, and pathological fracture) was recorded. In total, 271 patients with 278 intra-articular fractures of the tibial head were analyzed, including seven patients with both sides affected. The mean age was 49.1 years (men 46.3 years, women 53.5 years). The majority of fractures was caused by high-energy trauma. No significant difference could be shown with respect to trauma mechanism and resulting fracture type in terms of OTA/AO ( p = 0.352 ) or Schatzker classification ( p = 0.884 ). A significant difference could be found with respect to gender and resulting fracture type in terms of OTA/AO ( p = 0.031 ). 170 (61.2%) were OTA/AO type B fractures, and 108 (38.8%) were type C fractures. Using the Schatzker classification, we found 53 type I (19.1%), 60 type II (21.6%), 27 type III (9.7%), 32 type IV (11.5%), 16 type V (5.8%), and 90 type VI (32.4%) fractures. The main affection was found in the lateral and intermedial column of the tibial plateaus, concerning both OTA/AO and Schatzker classification. The variability of intra-articular tibial head fractures is very high. In consequence, an individual analysis of fracture patterns and therapy planning by using CT scans is crucial.

The Predictive Role of Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index in Young and Middle-Aged Patients with Tibial Plateau Fractures

Background There is suggestive evidence that the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) are related to the severity of fracture. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of PLR and SII in predicting fracture severity in young and middle-aged patients with tibial plateau fractures (TPFs). Methods The retrospective cohort study involving 229 isolated TPFs was performed between January 2015 and December 2019. Medical records of hospitalized patients were extracted from the electronic case system. Three experienced orthopedic surgeons classified the imaging data according to the Schatzker classification. All the patients were divided into two groups: group1 consisted of fractures of mild to moderate severity (Schatzker types I-IV), and group2 consisted of fractures of severe severity (Schatzker types V-VI). Platelet, neutrophil, and lymphocyte values at admission were obtained. The PLR = platelet/lymphocyte counts and the SII = platelet × neutrophil/lymphocyte counts were noted. Patients in groups 1 and 2 were statistically compared in terms of PLR and SII value on hospital admission. Results There were significant differences in the blood PLR, SII, Na+ and K+ levels, and neutrophil count between the two groups. According to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the cut-off of PLR and SII were 157.9 and 923.9, respectively. Our results showed that high PLR and SII were remarkably associated with the severity of TPFs. The sensitivity was 60% and the specificity was 86.9% when using the PLR ≥ 157.9 to predict the severity of the TPFs whereas the sensitivity was 63.3% and the specificity was 74.4% to predict the severity of TPFs at SII ≥ 923.9. In the multivariate analyses, the high preoperative PLR and SII were identified as independent predictors of severe TPFs. Conclusions The PLR and SII are simple and economical biomarkers that can be calculated from routine blood tests and can be used to predict the severity of tibial plateau fractures.

Application of Percutaneous Screw Fixation and Closed Reduction for Tibial Plateau Fractures in Karachi, Pakistan

Objective: Objective of this study is to assess the application of percutaneous screw fixation and closed reduction for tibial plateau fractures in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: The study design of this study is case series with sample size of 58 patients calculated by WHO calculator with functional outcome of 80-100%. The duration of the study was about 6 months.Non-probability sequential technique was adopted for data collection. Results: The average patient age was 35.35±6.84 years however male patient were high in numbers (83.8%). Types of fractures (type I, II and IV) and functional outcomes (un-satisfactory and satisfactory) showed 17(29.3%), 33(56.8%) and 12(20.6%) and 4(6.45%) and 58(93.5%). The mean Rasmussen Score was 24.6(4.9%) however significant relationship between age and functional group were observed (p<0.05). The Rasmussen Functional Scoring System and Schatzker classification were also evaluated w.r.t ache, capability of walking normally, extension lag, stability as well as range of motion. Scores ranging from 28 up till 36 stipulate excellent, from 20 to 27 good, considering score of 10 to 20 fair and 6 to 10 poor. Conclusion: The application of Percutaneous screw fixation and closed reduction for tibial plateau fractures in Karachi, Pakistanis less invasive, decrease hospital stays and charges, escalation of early mobilization along with satisfactory outcomes.

Arthroscopically assisted evaluation of frequency and patterns of meniscal tears in operative tibial plateau fractures: a retrospective study

Background Despite tibial plateau fractures are often associated with meniscal tears, the association between meniscal tears and Schatzker classification remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency and patterns of meniscal tears in operatively treated tibial plateau fractures following immediate arthroscopic evaluation after internal fixation of tibial plateau fractures and to reveal the association between these concomitant meniscal tears and Schatzker classification. Methods A total of 252 consecutive patients (166 males and 86 females, mean age 46.7 (19–80) years) with operatively treated tibial plateau fractures admitted to our hospital from January 2016 to May 2019 were performed. Arthroscopic examination for frequency and patterns of meniscal tears was evaluated and documented at the time of surgery, and the association between the frequency and patterns of meniscal tears with Schatzker classification was then analyzed. Results The overall frequency of meniscal tears in TPFs was 67% (168 of 252) with 33% (84 of 252) of these being lateral meniscal tears, and 10% (26 of 252) medial meniscal tears, while 23% (58 of 252) had bilateral meniscal tears. Schatzker II was most commonly associated with meniscal tears, occurring in 72% (71 of 99) of our series. There is no significant difference between the frequency of meniscal tears and Schatzker classification (p > 0.05). The most common patterns of meniscal tears were longitudinal tears in 23% of tibial plateau fractures (59 of 252), and it occurred at a significantly higher frequency in Schatzker II with 43% (43 of 99). Schatzker IV had significantly higher prevalence of bucket-handle tears than other fracture patterns (p < 0.05), and Schatzker VI fractures had significantly higher prevalence of complex tears than other fracture patterns (p < 0.05). For other Schatzker classification, the patterns of meniscal tears demonstrated no statistical difference (p > 0.05). Conclusion The results identified that meniscal tears are commonly seen in each Schatzker classification. Although various patterns of meniscal tears occurred in tibial plateau fractures, the most common patterns were longitudinal tears. Importantly, we suggest that the status of meniscal tears associated with TPFs should be considered at the time of surgery in addition to fracture fixation.

Arthroscopically assisted osteosynthesis of tibial plateau fracture, Schatzker type III: Case report

Introduction. Tibial plateau fractures are complex injuries that, in most cases, require surgical treatment in order to prevent far-reaching consequences for the functionality and quality of life of the patient. While numerous surgical techniques have been described, it is evident that the technique of arthroscopically assisted repositioning (reduction) and internal fixation has the potential to take the lead in the management of these types of injuries. Case report. We present the case of a 36-year-old patient injured in a traffic accident with a fracture of the left tibial plateau, type III by Schatzker classification. After the diagnostic procedures and preparation, the patient was operated on using arthroscopically assisted repositioning (reduction) and internal fixation, with the filling of the bone defect with a combination of allogenic and synthetic bone graft. No other intra-articular injuries were diagnosed intraoperatively. The postoperative recovery went without complications, and after a period of 10 weeks of non-weight bearing and functional rehabilitation, the fracture healed completely, while the patient regained full range of motion in the knee. Conclusion. Although this type of injury has traditionally been treated with open surgery, we believe that minimally invasive surgery is the future, when it comes to tibial plateau fractures Schatzker types I-III. There is still not enough data in the literature regarding the long-term outcomes of this type of treatment, but the early postoperative results are extremely encouraging since this surgical technique enables faster recovery and fewer postoperative complications.

Anatomical and clinical basis for a posterior surgical approach in fractures of the posterior parts of the lateral tibial condyle

Introduction Conventional anterolateral surgical approach to the lateral tibial condyle has been well studied and proven safe. However, this approach does not provide adequate visualization for performing a good quality osteosynthesis in fractures located in the posterior segment of the lateral condyle. Purpose of the investigation was a rationale of plate implantation technique on the posterior surface of the lateral tibial condyle from the posterior approach with anatomical and clinical demonstration of its technical feasibility and safety. Materials and methods The study was conducted on 10 knee joints of six unfixed cadavers. We implanted a T-plate on the posterior surface of the lateral tibial condyle using a posterior surgical approach. After that soft tissues were dissected to explore the exact location and the distances between the plate and crucial anatomic structures of the region. Five patients underwent surgical treatment of tibial plateau fractures 41C3 type following AO/OTA classification or Schatzker classification type V using the described method. The patients were followed-up for nine months after surgery. Results were evaluated using the KSS and Lysholm scales. Results The study on cadavers showed safety and feasibility of the surgical technique developed. We did not encounter specific complications associated with posterior plate implantation. All fractures healed after nine months postsurgery. The functional outcomes according to KSS scale were excellent in four cases and good in one case; according to Lysholm scale, three were excellent, one good and one fair outcome. Discussion In spite of the simplicity of the conventional anterolateral approach, many investigators tend to use different modifications of posterior approaches for the posterior lateral tibial condyle fixation. This method provides better reduction and fixation using a buttress plate. Our investigation showed safety and feasibility of this technique for fixation of the posterior segment of the lateral tibial condyle. The technique proposed, if performed properly, provides safe and accurate osteosynthesis and prevents secondary displacements of fragments in the rehabilitative period.

Clinical Analysis of Classification for Tibial Plateau Fractures and Popliteal Artery Injury

Background To explore the association between the classification for tibial plateau fractures (TPF) and the popliteal artery injury (PAI).Methods 22 TPF patients accompanied by PAI who were treated from May 2012 to July 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 19 males and 3 females with an average age of 49.43 years. The Schatzker classification and three-column classification were performed for TPF. The severity of extremity injury was evaluated using the mangled extremity severity score (MESS). Except 3 patients treated with amputation, the remaining patients underwent surgical repair of popliteal artery and fracture external fixation. The outcome was evaluated using the Rasmussen score for tibial head fractures.Results There were 10 cases of Schatzker type IV fractures, 1 case of type V fractures and 11 cases of type VI fractures. Based on the three-column classification, the posterior column was involved in 22 cases, 2 columns in 15 cases and 3 columns in 6 cases. The MESS was 6-10 points, with an average of 7.59 points. Except 1 case directly receiving amputation, 3 cases of segment P1 injury was observed via preoperative DSA + intraoperative exploration, while segment P2 in 6 cases and segment P3 in 12 cases. Popliteal artery was found completely ruptured in 11 cases, partially ruptured in 1 case, and severely contused with thrombosis in 10 cases. The Rasmussen score was given to 19 patients at the last follow-up, except for the cases undergoing amputation. The outcome was satisfied in 14 cases, unsatisfied in 5 cases.Conclusion: In patients with complex TPF, the risk of PAI becomes higher with the increase of Schatzker classification level. Knee CT scan is helpful in determining the severity of fractures and evaluating PAI. Based on the three-column classification, PAI should be suspected when the fractures involve the medial and posterior column.PAI is mainly in the segment P3, and artery rupture or severe contusion with extensive thrombosis may occur.

Tibial plateau fracture: anatomy, diagnosis and management

Tibial plateau fractures are peri-articular knee fractures of the proximal tibia. The presentation is dependent on the mechanism of injury. The tibial plateau is the bony platform of the distal half of the knee joint, and is made up of a medial and lateral condyle separated by the intercondylar eminence. The presentation of tibial plateau fractures can vary greatly as a result of the bimodal mechanism of injury and patient characteristics. The patient should be assessed for life- and limb-threatening injuries in accordance with British Orthopaedic Association Standards of Trauma guidelines. Imaging is undertaken to understand configuration of the fracture, which is classified by the Schatzker classification. Definitive management of the fracture depends on the severity, ranging from conservative to surgical management. Surgery is required for more severe tibial plateau fractures to restore articular congruity, mechanical alignment, ligamentous stability and to permit early mobilisation. Medium-term functional outcome after tibial plateau fractures is generally excellent when anatomy and stability is restored. At least half of patients return to their original level of physical activity. Surgical management of tibial plateau fractures is not without complication. Risk factors include postoperative arthritis, bicondylar and comminuted fractures, meniscal removal, instability, malalignment and articular incongruity. Tibial plateau fractures account for 1% of all fractures, and typically occur either as a fragility fracture or secondary to a high-energy impact. These latter injuries are associated with extensive soft tissue injury, life- and limb-threatening complications and long-term sequelae. While outcomes are generally good, severe injuries are at higher risk of infection and post-traumatic arthritis requiring knee arthroplasty. This article considers the anatomy, diagnosis and evidence-based management strategies for tibial plateau fracture.

INTER- AND INTRA-OBSERVER RELIABILITY OF SCHATZKER, AO, AND LUO CLASSIFICATIONS FOR TIBIAL PLATEAU FRACTURES

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify inter- and intra-observer agreement of three classification systems for tibial plateau fractures - Schatzker, AO/ASIF, and Luo’s - among orthopedic surgery residents. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 29 observers. Radiographic and tomographic imaging of the knee of 15 patients presenting with fractures were evaluated. After six weeks, the test was reapplied. The level of agreement was calculated by the Kappa index. Results: In test 1, inter-observer agreement of all residents, according to the Kappa index, for Schatzker classification was 0.226, for AO 0.431, and Luo’s 0.319. In test 2, values were 0.316, 0.333, and 0.347, respectively (p < 0.001). Regarding intra-observer analysis, the mean Kappa indexes of 1st-year residents were: Schatzker, 0.20; AO, 0.32; and Luo’s, 0.3. For 2nd-year residents, means were: 0.51, 0.58, and 0.38, respectively. As for 3rd-year, results were 0.42, 0.42, and 0.41, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion: AO/ASIF showed a better reproducibility than other classifications, with substantial inter- and intra-observer agreement. We also found a stronger agreement among 2nd- and 3rd-year residents. Level of Evidence III, Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a Diagnostic Test.