ABSTRACT
To evaluate the role of arthro scopically assisted reduction and fixation in patients with tibial plateau fracture. Al Razi Orthopedic Hospital, Kuwait. Forty-five consecutive patients with tibial plateau fracture were included in this study. They were graded as Schatzker type I-IV and were operated upon using arthroscopy to control reduction and fixation of the fracture. Fifteen fractures were fixed using three cancellous screws whereas the remaining thirty fractures were fixed using two cancellous screws. Nine patients had anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] tear and were treated by ACL reconstruction after healing of the fracture because of instability. Twenty-seven patients had meniscal injuries. Nine injuries were treated by meniscal repair whereas partial menisectomy was performed in 18 patients. All cases started rehabilitation within the first week after their surgery. All patients were assessed at the end of 36 months. Clinically, 33 cases showed full range of motion that was painless. Six cases had mild pain and were able to demonstrate a range of motion from 0 to 80 degrees. Six patients had mild chronic swelling. Radiologically, all cases showed a complete union after 12 weeks. No patient showed osteoporotic or osteoarthritic changes. Arthroscopically assisted reduction and fixation of tibial plateau fracture avoids arthrotomy of the knee joint, helps in diagnosis of other associated intra-articular injuries and facilitates early rehabilitation. It may also give a better final outcome when compared with conventional arthrotomy