• Bruce H Ziran and Stephen John Becher.
• Atlanta Medical Center, Atlanta, GA.
• J Orthop Trauma. 2013 Nov 1; 27 (11): 612-5.

ObjectivesThe purpose of this article was to evaluate the relationship of radiographic features of tibial plateau fractures to the development of compartment syndrome. We hypothesized that the direction and degree of initial displacement of the femur on the tibia, and the amount of tibial widening (TW), were correlated with the development of compartment syndrome.DesignRetrospective case-control study.SettingSingle level 1 trauma center.PatientsRetrospective evaluation of 158 patients with 162 plateau fractures.InterventionGrouping with and without compartment syndrome.Main Outcome MeasuresThe following data were obtained: age, sex, Schatzker and OTA/AO classification, open/closed status, TW, and femoral displacement (FD). A univariate statistical and a logistical regression analysis were performed to determine significance.ResultsThe overall rate of compartment syndrome was 11%. Univariate analysis found both the TW and FD to be significant with respect to development of compartment syndrome (P < 0.05). Higher Schatzker (IV-VI) and OTA/AO grades were also correlated (P < 0.05) with increased incidence of compartment syndrome. Logistic regression found FD and Schatzker grade to be significant.ConclusionsOur study is the first to identify easily obtained radiographic parameters that correlate to the occurrence compartment syndrome. There may also be a relationship between TW and FD, as noted by regression result. This study helps to assess which patients with a fracture are at higher risk for developing a compartment syndrome.Level Of EvidencePrognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

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