Lateral Submeniscal Approach in the Treatment of Tibial Condyle Fracture

Kim, Weon Yoo; Kim, Jin Young; Choi, Woo Sung; Kim, Yong Hwan; Lee, Bum Sung; Kim, Young Mo; Han, Chang Whan

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate the radiologic and functional results of treatment in proximal tibial plateau fracture using lateral submeniscal approach, which is a relatively minimally invasive approach to tibial condylar articular surface.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty three cases of tibial plateau fracture which treated with submeniscal approach were analyzed with one year follow up. The results were evaluated by immediate postoperative radiographic and Hohl's clinical evaluation.
RESULTS
Tibial articular surface could be in operation field and the articular surface could be restored the anatomically by elevating the depressed articular surface and bone graft to the empty space. The postoperative radiography showed that most cases (91%) could be reduced adequately (within 2 mm). The clinical evaluation by Hohl's criteria revealed excellent 7 cases (30%), good 12 cases (52%), fair 3 cases (13%), and one poor case (4%).
CONCLUSION
Submeniscal approach can identify the articular surface and intraarticular soft tissues with minimal incision, and allows anatomical reduction, sufficient bone graft, rigid plate fixation and soft tissue treatment, therefore it is one of the good approach in treatment of proximal tibial plateau fracture.