OBJECTIVETo study the feasibility of application of ilium inner table to repair the articular surface defects of tibial plateau complex fractures.

METHODSTwenty-three patients with tibial plateau complex fractures included 17 males and 6 females with an average age of 28.3 years old ranging from 18 to 51 years. The area of the articular surface defects ranged from 1 cmx2 cm to 3 cmx3 cm, averaged 6.7 cm2. Taking ilium inner table with periosteum after trimmed and implanting into the articular surface defect area with the concavity upward and drilled with diameter 1.5 mm Kirschner pin interval 3 to 4 mm. Bone grafting were placed under the ilium inner table and were fixed by T-shaped or L-shaped plate. The wounded limb were braked by plaster for 4 weeks after operation.

RESULTSTwenty-three patients were followed-up for 8 months to 3 years, averaged 13.6 months. X-ray film showed solid union and the smooth articular surface in all cases. According to the Rasmussen evaluation system, the results were excellent in 11 cases, good in 8 cases,fair in 3 cases, poor in 1 case.

CONCLUSIONTaking ilium inner table to repair the articular surface defects of tibial plateau complex fractures is a good resolving measures. It can repaire major area of articular surface defects, restore the smooth articular surface and acquire good function of knee joint with easy to operate, less complications at donor area.