Comparison of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures with double or single lateral locked plate

Abstract

Objective: To compare postoperative radiographic outcomes of Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures treated with double-plate or single lateral locked plate. Methods: Sixty-three patients operated from December 2011 to February 2016 were selected, 47 from the double-plate group and 16 from the single lateral locked plate group. Minimum follow-up for all patients was 6 months. Fracture reduction evaluation was based on radiographic parameters: joint reduction, sagittal alignment, coronal alignment, and condylar width. Results: Radiographic evaluation showed no statistical difference in the immediate or late postoperative periods. Conclusion: Despite the reduced sample, this study is aligned with current results published in the medical literature. The severity of Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures can be minimized by the correct indication for the implant regarding fracture morphology. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective comparative study.