Arthroscopic Technique for Treatment of Schatzker Type III Tibia Plateau Fractures Without Fluoroscopy

Abstract

Accurate reduction and maintenance of the stability with correct implant positioning is critical for surgical treatment of tibial plateau fractures. Our technique includes an arthroscopic reduction and fixation of Schatzker type III tibial plateau fractures with a bulls-eye screw placement without fluoroscopy control. With the arthroscopic guidance, an anterior cruciate ligament drill guide is placed and a K-wire sent to the midpoint of the depressed fragment through the guide at a 40 degrees angle to the coronal axis of the tibia. A tunnel is created with the drill over the K-wire. The depressed fragment is further augmented with gentle impacts over the K-wire. After arthroscopic reduction control, an appropriate-sized iliac graft is pushed until it is below the depressed fragment. The targeting device is adjusted at 130 degrees so that it is parallel to the joint line and a K-wire sent through the device so that it would pass just below the graft. The graft is then supported with cannulated screws sent over the K-wire. This technique provides an arthroscopic reduction of the chondral surface and precise placement of the rafting screws without fluoroscopy.