Evaluation of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Schatzker Type V and VI Tibial Plateau Fractures Managed by Dual Plating: A Prospective Analytical Study.

Authors: Vishnu Pratap Singh, Aman Bhardwaj, Banshilal bishnoi, Ajeet Kumar Aloriya, A.K. Mehra

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijos.9438.1760522534

Keywords: Schatzker type V, Schatzker type VI, tibial plateau fractures, dual plating, functional outcomes, radiological outcomes, Knee Society Score, complications, minimally invasive surgery.

Abstract: Introduction: Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures are complex injuries resulting from high-energy trauma, often associated with soft tissue damage. These fractures present significant challenges in restoring joint congruity and function. Dual plating techniques, utilizing both lateral locking plates and medial buttress plates, have become the gold standard for managing these fractures, offering enhanced stability and facilitating early mobilization. Method: A prospective analytical study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedics, RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, from July 2023 to June 2024, involving 22 patients aged 18–60 years with closed Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures. All patients underwent dual plating surgery. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Knee Society Score, while radiological parameters such as medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and articular step-off were analyzed. Results: The study demonstrated excellent to good functional outcomes in 95.4% of patients, with average Knee Society Scores of 81.53 for lateral locking plates and 84.44 for raft plates. Radiologically, 86% of patients had an articular step-off of ≤2 mm, and MPTA remained within the normal range. Complications were minimal, with a 4.54% rate of superficial infection and 22.72% of knee stiffness. Conclusion: Dual plating is an effective treatment for Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures, offering superior functional and radiological outcomes with minimal complications, especially when combined with minimally invasive techniques.