Title : Tibial plateau fractures: Patient outcomes and risk factors; Definitive arthroplasty; Articular collapse
Abstract:
Tibial Plateau Fractures are often complex intra-articular fractures that account for 1% of all adult fractures. Based on mechanism they carry a bimodal distribution, where high energy mechanisms tend to occur in younger adults, while low energy mechanisms are seen in the elderly. The significance of these injuries lies much deeper than its surgical context, as the injuries are equated to high levels of morbidity directly impacting one’s ability to rejoin the workforce, while also putting a strain into the healthcare system with numerous complications and possible reasons to return to the operating room. We explored this topic even further looking at patient outcomes after surgical repair of a tibial plateau fracture. We then further looked at the risk factors at play for decreased patient outcomes as well as those that could predict the need for arthroplasty and arthroscopy, and the incidence of articular collapse.
In conclusion, research has thoroughly investigated the functional outcomes of those who undergo tibial plateau fracture repair, but almost all the studies cited a short term to mid-term review as a limitation to their studies as well as small and inconclusive data sets. Future research should take into consideration the rates of osteoarthritis development, the need for total knee replacement and arthroscopy, and delve into rates of articular collapse to have a more comprehensive overview of the late complications of tibial plateau fractures.
