The journal of knee surgery
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Fractures involving the posterior aspect of the tibial plateau are challenging fractures to treat. Articular depression in tibial plateau fractures is usually addressed by elevation of the fragment(s), filling the residual defect with bone graft or bone substitute, and "raft" support of the articular fracture reduction with screws through a medially and/or laterally based plate. ⋯ To obtain the goals of anatomic reduction and stable fixation, a thorough understanding of the fracture, specific approaches, reduction techniques, and stabilization strategies is needed. This article reviews the most current strategies for treating tibial plateau fracture patients with posterior articular depression.
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Tibial plateau fractures involving the posterolateral articular surface present a unique challenge to treating surgeons due to the complex anatomy of the region. The posterolateral corner complex and the proximity of the common peroneal nerve restrict both the exposure of the joint surface and the ability to distract across the joint using a varus force. Further, injury to the soft tissue envelope may prevent use of the optimal surgical incision. ⋯ In this article, we highlight five surgical approaches that can be utilized to improve visualization and access to the posterolateral tibial plateau. These include three separate osteotomies performed through an anterolateral approach: lateral femoral epicondyle osteotomy, fibular head resection osteotomy, and a novel digastric fibular osteotomy. In addition, we will discuss a posterolateral approach and a direct posterior approach.