ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the results of less invasive surgical treatment of high energy tibial plateau fracture, which involves limited open reduction, percutaneous screw fixation and Hybrid external fixation. Methods From 1999 to 2002, 12 cases of high energy tibial plateau fracture were treated with Hybrid external fixation. They were 8 males and 4 females. According to Schatzker classification, there were 9 cases of Type Ⅴand 3 cases of Type Ⅵin the group. The average age of the patients was 39.3 years old (ranging from 27 to 48). Results All were followed up for an average of 15 months (ranging from 6 to 27). All the fractures got united, with an average healing time of 3.2 months. All patients achieved 0 to 5 degrees of extension and more than 100 degrees of flexion. The patients had an average knee score of 88.7 and an average functional score of 85.2(Knee Society clinical rating system). 1 case had infection of pin holes, and 2 knees had Grade 2 arthrosis at radiographic check up two years after the operation. Conclusion Hybrid external fixation combined with limited open reduction is appropriate for treatment of the complex tibial fractures, especially those with a poor soft tissue envelope.