To investigate the effect of treating tibial plateau fractures involving the posterior column via anterolateral approach. To discuss its merit and demerit, indications and contraindications.

From Jan 2012 to Jan 2015, 37 patients with closed tibial plateau fractures involving the posterior column were treated by 3.5mm proximal tibial plate with narrow plate head through standard anterolateral approach. The group included 25 males and 12 females, aged from 23 to 65 years old (average 44.6 years old). During the treatment and follow-up period, the curative effect was evaluated by using Rasmussen’s radiological grading for early radiological outcomes and HSS grading, Lysholm grading, Lachman test and Pivot-shift testfor clinical examination at the 1 year follow-up.

The average time for the operation was 98 min (range, 55-170 min). 1 year follow-up was completed in 37 patients. The average fracture union time and full weight bearing were 10.6 weeks (range, 8-16 weeks) and 11.2 weeks (range, 8-20 weeks) respectively without reduction loss. No statistical difference was found in either the tibial plateau angle (TPA) or posterior slope angle (PA) when comparing the results at instant, 3rd month, 6th month and 12 month. The mean score of the Rasmussen’s radiological grading was 15.6(range, 12-18) and the mean score of the HSS grading was 88.6 (range, 80-100). The average range of motion of the knee joint was 128.6°(range, 110°-150°). The mean score of the Lysholm grading was 91.6±3.9. The Lachman test and the Pivot-shift test were negtive.

Treating tibial plateau fractures involving the posterior column by 3.5 mm proximal tibial plate with narrow plate head through standard anterolateral approach is an effective method. The protocol is simple and safe, the approach is familiar by most clinicians. Good reduction and fixation, earlier functional exercise can be achieved easily. The knee function recovered well and earlier curative effect was satisfied.

Tibia; Fracture; Fracture fixation, internal