Comparison of Functional Outcome Between Locking Plate Technique Versus Hybrid Ilizarov Technique in Patients With Schatzker Type V and VI Tibial Plateau Fractures

Description

This comparative clinical study will evaluate and compare the functional outcomes of patients with Schatzker type V and VI tibial plateau fractures treated using either the locking plate technique or the hybrid Ilizarov technique. Functional outcome will primarily be assessed using the Rasmussen Knee Functional Score. Fracture healing, time to union, non-union, delayed union, and infection will also be assessed and compared between the two treatment groups.

Interventions

• Hybrid Ilizarov Fixation (Procedure)
  Patients with Schatzker type V or VI tibial plateau fractures will undergo fracture reduction and fixation using a hybrid Ilizarov external fixation system under C-arm fluoroscopic guidance. Closed or minimally open reduction will be performed as appropriate. The construct will consist of a hybrid Ilizarov C-ring with appropriately tensioned Kirschner wires and Schanz screws. Additional wires or fixation components may be used when required to achieve adequate fracture stability and alignment. Bone graft or bone substitute may be used when clinically indicated.
• Locking Plate Fixation (Procedure)
  Patients with Schatzker type V or VI tibial plateau fractures will undergo fracture reduction and internal fixation using a locking compression plate under C-arm fluoroscopic guidance. The appropriate surgical approach and medial and/or lateral plate configuration will be selected according to fracture morphology, comminution, and stability. Bone graft or bone substitute may be used when clinically indicated. Postoperative rehabilitation will include early knee range-of-motion exercises, non-weight-bearing ambulation initially, and progressive weight-bearing according to clinical and radiological fracture healing.

Eligibility criteria

Conditions

Locations

• Jinnah Hospital Lahore — Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan