OBJECTIVETo observe the clinical effect of the treatment for complex fractures of the tibial plateau through the application of the external fixator and the locking plate.

METHODSFrom Feb. 2006 to Oct. 2008,12 patients with tibial plateau fractures were treated with external fixator and locking plate included 8 males and 4 females with an average age of 38 years ranging from 23 to 59. According to Schatzker type, 7 cases were type V and 5 cases were type VI. Using an anteromedial incision and an anterolateral approach, the locking plate were fixed in the tibia lateral. The collapse and height lossing of tibial plateau was observed through X-ray film before and after operation. The function of knee joint was evaluated according to HSS scoring.

RESULTSThese patients were followed up for 4 to 18 months (means 9.79 months). Eleven cases had bone primary union,and 1 delayed union. No deep phlebothrombosis and osteofascial compartment syndrome occurened. The average healing time was 3.1 months. Between the preoperative and postoperative X-ray film there were no second stage depression fracture of the tibial plateau,postoperative reduction loss and bad alignment. The range of knee flexion was 90 degrees to 110 degrees. The HSS knee functional scoring was(75.50 +/- 10.01)scores after operation and (21.50 +/- 11.68) scores before operation.

CONCLUSIONThe treatment with the external fixator and the locking plate for complex fractures of the tibial plateau could provid continuous stability of fixation,prevent the fracture from second stage displacement and the knee force line change, protect the soft-tissue around the knee, reduce the postoperative complications. The knee joint function is satisfied.