Volume 24 No 3 (2026)
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Functional Outcome of Proximal Tibial Fractures Treated with Hybrid External Fixator as Definitive Management - A Record Based Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital Mandya
Dr. Shivaprakash S.S., Dr. Nitin Patel Y.R., Dr. Amaradeep G., Dr. Veeresh Kori
Abstract
Background
Proximal tibial fractures, especially high-energy tibial plateau injuries, pose significant challenges due to articular involvement and associated soft-tissue compromise. Hybrid external fixation has emerged as a viable alternative to internal fixation in such scenarios.
Objectives
To evaluate the functional and radiological outcomes of proximal tibial fractures treated definitively with a hybrid external fixator at a tertiary care hospital in Mandya.
Methods
This observational, record-based study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics, Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences. Adult patients aged 18–60 years with proximal tibial fractures managed definitively using a hybrid external fixator were included. Demographic details, fracture characteristics, time to union, complications, and outcomes were analyzed. Radiological outcome was assessed using Rasmussen radiological criteria, while functional outcome was evaluated using Rasmussen functional score and knee range of motion. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results
The study included 20 patients with a mean age of 41.3 ± 9.2 years; 75% were males. Road traffic accidents accounted for 70% of injuries. Schatzker type V and VI fractures comprised 80% of cases, and 45% were open fractures. Radiological union was achieved in all patients, most commonly within 16–20 weeks. Good to excellent radiological outcomes were seen in 75% of patients. Functional outcomes were good to excellent in 75%, with 75% achieving knee flexion greater than 100°. Pin-tract infection (25%) was the most common complication.
Conclusion
Hybrid external fixation provides stable fixation, satisfactory functional recovery, and low major complication rates, making it an effective definitive treatment for complex proximal tibial fractures.
Keywords
Proximal Tibial Fractures; Hybrid External Fixator; Tibial Plateau; Rasmussen Score; Functional Outcome.
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