Combined Use of Percutaneous Canulated Screws and External or Internal Fixationfor Less Invasive Treatment of Tibial Plateaux Fractures

The classic way of treatment of tibial plateau fractures with an extensive approach, opening of the knee and compressive internal fixation can lead to major complications such as infection, skin necrosis and knee stiffness. Here we present a less invasive and thus safer surgical technique, and its indications and results. Twenty patients with various types of fractures according to Schatzker’s classification (mainly V and VI) were treated during a time period of seven years. Surgical treatment usually consisted of a combination of percutaneous canulated screws with a hybrid external fixator. In three cases canulated screws were combined with a laterally applied anatomic locking plate. Patients were followed up for six months to three years postoperatively. Indications as well as intra and postoperative parameters such as surgical time, stability of fixation, blood loss, wound healing, infection, fracture healing and final result were studied. No major complications were recorded either early or later. The use of external οr less invasive internal fixation in combination with percutaneous canulated screws appears to be an adequate method for the treatment of most types of these fractures.