Minimally invasive osteosynthesis of fractures of the tibial condyles

Abstract

Objectives. To carry out a comparative analysis of the results of minimally invasive and traditional open osteosynthesis in patients with fractures of the tibial condyles. Methods. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the performed surgical treatment method of the fractures of the tibial condyles. In the first group (n=70) the open reposition of the fracture with the internal fixation was applied. In the second group (n=70) minimally invasive treatment methods were used: the closed reposition and percutaneous fixation with cannulated screws, reposition through the trepanation window with screws/plate fixation, minimally invasive osteosynthesis by plates, arthroscopically-assisted osteosynthesis. The following parameters were evaluated in the compared groups: the duration of the operation, the radiographic result of the treatment, the functional condition of the lower limb and the duration of temporary work incapacity. Results. It has been found out that use of minimally invasive surgical treatment of fractures of the tibial condyles reduces the operative time from 100 (90-120) to 70 (60-90) minutes, but does not affect the quality of the reposition, and the number of infectious complications. It is also noted that the use of minimally invasive osteosynthesis of fractures of the tibial condyles permits to reduce the time of temporary disability from 24 (22-41) weeks to 21 (17-33,5) and achieve better functional outcomes compared with traditional open procedures. The study of long-term radiographic results of treatment showed that both methods of treatment permit to achieve a satisfactory reposition of bone fragments. In Schatzker type I and II fracture the advantages of minimally invasive treatment methods have been determined. The quality of reposition of Schatzker type III and VI fracture in both groups is comparable. It should be pointed out that regardless of the treatment technique used, reposition of the bicondylar fractures (Schatzker type V and VI) was accompanied by worse radiological outcomes in comparison with the results of single condyle damage. Conclusion. The performed research has proved the efficacy of minimally invasive surgical procedures for the treatment of patients with tibial condylar fractures.