SCHATZKER’S V, VI TIBIAL PLATEAU FRACTURES MANAGED NON OPERATIVELY BY CASTING.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of non-operative management of ofSchatzker’s V, VI tibial plateau fractures and to share our experience. Study Design: Prospective descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: Department Of Orthopedic Surgery And Traumatology, Peoples Medical University Hospital, Shaheed Benazeer Abad between January 2016 and December 2019. Methodology: 27 cases of Schatzker’s V, VI tibial plateau fractures with age ranging from 18 to 50 years of either sex, who were not willing for any kind of surgery, were included in the study, while patients with co-morbids, host type B, C excluded from study. All the variables of patients were assessed radiological and clinically and documented on designed proforma for study. Knee functional scores assessed and arthritic changes noted. Results: There were total 27 patients, 19(70.37%) were male & 8(29.63%) patients were female with mean age of 35.48±7.8 years. [Table 01] 10(37%) cases having Left sided while 17(63%) having right sided injury and none reported bilateral Schatzker V and VI. (44.44%) 12 were Schatzker V and (55.55%) 15 Schatzker VI.Most common factor for denying surgrey was advice by family or friends, followed by fear of surgery and fear of implant.The mean time for radiological bony union was 21.9±4.1 weeks. [Table 02] The average time of follow-up was 59.5±17.3 weeks.Range of motion at knee joint averaged 110°±15° of flexion and with 5.5°±2°with lack of full extension. Conclusion: Schatzker V, VI tibial plateau fractures when treated in cast and splint didn’t give satisfactory functional outcomes. Patients are prone to develop early osteoarthritis so it is better to counsel the patients regarding surgical intervention.