International Journal of Medical Science and Pharmaceutical Research

Introduction: Tibial plateau fractures, particularly Schatzker type II, represent a significant orthopedic challenge due to their intra-articular involvement and potential for long-term functional impairment if not properly managed. The present study aims to evaluate the complications associated with ORIF using a proximal tibial locking buttress plate with bone graft in the management of Schatzker type II tibial plateau fractures.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the National Institute of Traumatology & Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2014 to July 2016. All patients attending emergency and out-patient and indoor departments in NITOR, Dhaka were considered as the study population. A total of 20 patients with tibial plateau fracture Schatzker type II were selected as study subjects by purposive sampling technique. Data were processed and analyzed by SPSS.

Result: Most patients (60%) achieved fracture union within 76–90 days, with a mean union time of 90.5 ± 11.27 days. Radiographically, 60% showed a RUST score of 3, indicating good healing, and all patients achieved a functional knee range of motion averaging 113.5° ± 14.4°. The average hospital stay was 11 days, and complications were minimal, with only 2 patients (10%) experiencing superficial wound infections, one of whom also had knee stiffness.

Conclusion: The present study highlights that open reduction and internal fixation of Schatzker type II tibial plateau fractures using a proximal tibial locking buttress plate with bone graft is a reliable and effective technique with a low complication profile.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, Complications, Proximal Tibia, Buttress Plate

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