A STUDY OF FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME IN THREE COLUMN FIXATION OF COMPLEX TIBIAL PLATEAU FRACTURES

Introduction: The treatment of complex tibial plateau fractures (TPF), especially those caused by high-energy trauma, remains a challenge in many respects. Tibial plateau fractures are one of the commonest periarticular fractures. These fractures include 1% of all fractures and 8% of fractures in elderly. Motor vehicle accidents account for the majority of these fractures in younger individuals with good bone stock, but in elderly individuals these fractures may result from simple fall due to osteopenic bone. Conservative methods may result in malunion and articular congruity cannot be restored. Surgical treatment can regain articular congruity and restore mechanical alignment, and can allow early range of motion. Open reduction and internal fixation techniques had been associated with wound complications.

Aim Of The Study: To evaluate functional outcome in patients of complex tibial plateau fractures treated by three column fixation.

Materials and Methods: In our institution 20 patients with displaced tibial plateau fractures with posterior column involvement were selected for the study. This is a prospective study done from AUGUST 2023 to APRIL 2024(9 months).Patients were evaluated with X rays (AP and lateral views) and Computed Tomography (axial, coronal, sagittal with 3D reconstruction views). Fractures classified based on 3 column concept classification. Mean follow up period was 6 months .Functional and radiological outcome was assessed using functional knee score , modified rasmussen score and WOMAC score.

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Patients admitted with complex tibial plateau fractures involving medial, lateral and posterior column of tibia. 2. Both sexes 3. Age 20-60 yrs. 

Exclusion Criteria: 1) Bad skin status of the fractured site. 2) Patients with co morbidities not fit for surgery. 3) Patients with neurovascular deficit. 4) Patients not willing for surgery.

Results:In our study, 70% of the patients were in active productive age group (30-50 years). 85% of the patients were male. The fractures were left sided in 75% patients. 85% patients in study sustained injury due to road traffic accident. 80% cases in the study were type 5 schatzker type 5 fractures and all the cases included in the study were 3 column fractures. 8 cases out of 20 cases in the study required epidural analgesia instead of a repeat spinal as the duration of the surgery was longer.

Conclusion: To conclude,3 column fixation in high energy displaced tibial plateau fractures with three column fractures resulted in Good clinical and radiological outcomes.