Surgical techniques of complex tibial plateau fractures with open reduction and internal fixation with bilateral plates

Objective:To evaluate the clinical results and surgical techniques of complex tibial plateau fractures with open reduction and internal fixation with bilateral plates.Method:From January 2001 to December 2005,48 cases of complex tibial plateau fractures were treated by two-incision approaches with two plates.According to the Schatzker Classification,9 cases were type Ⅳ,13 cases were type Ⅴ,26 cases were type Ⅵ.Result:All cases were followed up from 1.5 to 3.5 years(average 2.5).Time of the bone healing was 6-9 months,with mean 7.8 months.No bone delayed union and non-union occurred.The function of the knee was evaluated according to Rasmussen's criteria.The results were excellent in 26 cases,14 cases were good,and the fine rate was 83.3%.Conclusion:The complex fractures of the tibial plateau should be treated surgically,and the operation procedures with two-incisions and two-plates are an effective surgical approach for treatment of complex tibial plateau fractures.