Functional Outcome of Fractures of the Tibial Condyle Treated with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Abstract

displaced fractures can give poor functional outcome if not treated properly. This is a prospective Observational study to assess the functional outcome of tibial condyle fractures following Open reduction and internal fixation.

Methods: 24 patients who underwent Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Tibial condyle fractures were followed up during immediate post op period and at 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Functional outcome was assessed using American Knee Society Score and results were analysed statistically.

Results: Majority of patients in this study group were from 40-50 years with mean age 46. 20.8 cases were Schatzker type 2, 12.55 were type 3, 8.3% were type 4, 16.7% were type 5, 41.7% were type 6. Knee Society Score of patients were excellent in 41.7%, good in 50% and fair in 8.3% cases. Patients with higher grade of injury had lesser knee society score. Patients with persistent osseous depression and higher grade of valgus deformity had poor outcome.  Patients who were started on knee mobilization earlier achieved good ROM earlier.

Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws is a good method for treating tibial condyle fractures even in high velocity injuries. Bicondylar fractures can be effectively fixed with single plate. Post-operative wound infection is a major problem in tibial condyle fractures following surgery.