SA Orthopaedic Journal
Print version ISSN 1681-150X
PELSER, PC. Controversies in the management of tibial plateau fractures. SA orthop. j. [online]. 2010, vol.9, n.3, pp. 75-82. ISSN 1681-150X.
Over the past decades, a greater understanding of the mechanism of long-bone injury has led to a proliferation of treatments of these fractures. Various surgical techniques have been developed and enhanced, offering the modern-day surgeon a wide choice of fixation options and devices, all with their own indications, contraindications and potential problems. The treatment of the soft-tissue injuries that so often accompany tibial plateau fractures (TPFs) and the type of material that is best for the filling of subchondral defects after the reduction of depressed fractures are among a range of subjects that are also matters of controversy. Based on a wealth of literature, this paper takes a critical look at the controversies that have developed regarding aspects of the classification, treatment modalities and prognosis of TPF with reference to related matters. After discussing each of these aspects of TPF separately, the author makes recommendations.