Objective:

To reveal the clinical and radiological results of Schatzker Type V and VI tibial plateau fractures operated using classic anterior midline incision.

Material and Methods:

A total of 17 patients (5 females, 12 male) were included in the study. The mean age was 44.8 years (actual age range 26–71 years). An anterior midline incision was used for all patients. Patients were clinically and radiologically assessed 6 months after surgery. Clinical results were evaluated using the visual analog scale, Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score, and range of motion. Radiological results were evaluated for the presence of bony union, medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), posterior proximal tibial angle (PPTA), and step-off on the fracture line.

Results:

Union was observed in all patients. Infection and neurological deficits were not identified. The mean HSS knee score was 92.7. According to the HSS score, one patient had a poor outcome. The mean flexion was 110.5°. The mean MPTA was 88.1° with the mean PPTA at 82.2°. Anatomic reduction was achieved in all patients.

Conclusion:

A classic anterior midline incision and the elevation of the anterior horn of the menisci allow visualization of the whole plateau. Fracture reduction and fixation can be easily performed. This technique should be considered for tibial plateau fractures owing to its advantages.

Keywords: tibia fracture, plateau fracture, anterior approach, anterior midline incision