FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF PROXIMAL TIBIAL FRACTURES MANAGED WITH LOCKING COMPRESSION PLATE FIXATION: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56802/pfs8ss61Keywords:
Functional Outcome, Locking Compression Plate, Proximal Tibial Fracture, Rasmussen Score, Schatzker Classification, Tibial Plateau FractureAbstract
Background: Proximal tibial fractures are complex periarticular injuries that frequently involve the articular surface of the knee and may be associated with metaphyseal comminution, soft tissue damage, instability, and long-term functional limitation.
Aim: To evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes of proximal tibial fractures managed with locking compression plate fixation.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 110 adult patients with proximal tibial fractures treated using locking compression plate fixation in the Department of Orthopedics during the year 2021. Clinical profile, mechanism of injury, fracture classification, operative parameters, radiological union, postoperative complications, and functional outcome were assessed. Fractures were classified according to the Schatzker classification. Functional outcome was assessed using the Rasmussen Functional Knee Score at final follow-up.
Results: The mean age of patients was 41.6 ± 12.8 years. Male predominance was observed, and road traffic accidents were the most frequent mode of injury. Schatzker type V fractures were the commonest fracture pattern, followed by type VI fractures. Mean radiological union time was 16.8 ± 3.4 weeks, and mean knee flexion at final follow-up was
118.4 ± 12.6 degrees. Excellent-to-good functional outcome was observed in 84 (76.4%) patients. Knee stiffness was the most common complication. Early surgery, early mobilization, and union within 16 weeks demonstrated significant association with improved functional outcome. Prolonged union duration showed significant negative correlation with Rasmussen functional score.
Conclusion: Locking compression plate fixation provides satisfactory radiological union and functional recovery in proximal tibial fractures with acceptable complication rates. Restoration of alignment, stable fixation, careful soft tissue handling, and early rehabilitation are important for achieving favourable knee function.
