Tibial Plateau Fracture Surgical Treatment
What are the surgical options for a tibial plateau fracture?
Surgical intervention is often necessary for more severe tibial plateau fractures to restore proper alignment of the bones, reconstruct the joint surface, and stabilize the knee joint. If surgery is needed, it is recommended to proceed as soon as possible following the injury. The specific surgical approach depends on the characteristics of the fracture, including the degree of displacement, the pattern of the fracture, and the involvement of the joint surface.
Typically, Dr. Chahla will present to you the surgical option of a tibial plateau open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). In some cases, this may be able to be completed arthroscopically. An ORIF involves making an incision to access the fracture site, repositioning the bone fragments into their normal alignment, and then using screws and a plate to hold the bones in place during the healing process. It will take 6-8 weeks for the bone to heal following an ORIF.
If you have suffered an ACL tibial avulsion fracture, Dr. Chahla will discuss the option of proceeding with an arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation of the ACL avulsion fracture. During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Chahla will use sutures that he passes through a small tunnel and secures with a non-metal anchor to reposition the displaced bone fragment back to its anatomical position on the tibia. This will secure the bone fragment in its correct place and restore stability as the bone heals. It will take 6-8 weeks for the bone to heal following an ORIF.
At a Glance
Dr. Jorge Chahla
- Triple fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon
- Performs over 700 surgeries per year
- Assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Rush University
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