Malreduction of tibial articular width in bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated with circular external fixation is associated with post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to report outcomes of Bicondylar Tibial Plateau (BTP) fractures treated using Ilizarov fixation, and identify risk factors for developing post-traumatic radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA). METHODS: Retrospective study of 80 BTP fractures managed with Ilizarov fixation. RESULTS: All fractures united, with only 3 cases of deep infection. ROA was evident in 12.5% at average 13 months post-injury. Increased tibial articular-widening associated with risk of developing ROA (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Ilizarov fixation is safe and reliable in the management of BTP fractures. Restoration of tibial articular-width at fixation associated with reduced risk of developing radiographic OA.