The journal of knee surgery
-
Comparative Study
Are Locked Plates Needed for Split Depression Tibial Plateau Fractures?
Displaced tibial plateau fractures often require surgical treatment and plate and screw constructs are the most common method of fixation. There has been increased usage of locking plate technology for both complex and simple fracture patterns without any evidence demonstrating their advantage. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical use of locked versus nonlocked plating for repair of displaced Schatzker type-II (OTA Type 41B) tibial plateau fractures. ⋯ In terms of cost, the cost of locked construct was $905 more than the nonlocked construct. Based on clinical outcomes and cost per implant, we found no evidence to support the routine use of locked plating for simple split depression fractures of the lateral tibial plateau. The use of standard nonlocked, precontoured implants provides adequate fixation for these fracture patterns.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Do the Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Knee Osteoarthritis Pain and Function Last?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been shown to decrease pain associated with knee osteoarthritis, which potentially leads to better function, improved quality of life, and postpones the need for surgical intervention. The purpose of this study was to perform a 1-year follow-up of a previous prospective group of patients with knee osteoarthritis, randomized to TENS or standard of care, who were asked to rate their changes in: (1) patient pain perception; (2) subjective medication use; (3) subjective functional abilities; (4) quality of life; (5) device use; and (6) conversion to TKA. A population of 70 patients were randomized to receive either a TENS device or a standard conservative therapy regimen. ⋯ Additionally, a large portion of the patients assigned to the TENS group continue to use the device, after completion of the trial. This study demonstrated the benefit of TENS for improving subjective outcomes in patients with pain due to knee osteoarthritis, compared with standard conservative treatments. The results of the study suggest that TENS is a safe and effective adjunct as part of the spectrum of current nonoperative treatment methods for knee osteoarthritis.
-
Objective The goal of this study was to determine the incidence of soft-tissue injuries in patients with posterolateral tibial plateau fractures. Methods The data of 265 patients who had sustained posterolateral tibial plateau fractures between May 2009 and Aug 2014 were retrospectively reviewed using a picture archiving and communication system. Fractures were classified according to the Schatzker, AO/OTA, and quadrant classification systems. ⋯ The incidence of lateral meniscus tears was 48%, while that of medial meniscus tears was 4%. Conclusion Posterolateral tibial plateau fractures were associated with a high incidence of soft-tissue injuries, especially ACL footprint avulsions and lateral meniscus tears. The preoperative MRI examination was important for surgeons to decide whether the ligament and meniscal injuries should be treated simultaneously with the repair of the bone fractures.