Functional Outcomes after Tibial Plateau Fractures
Functional Outcomes after Tibial Plateau Fractures
Tibial plateau fractures are complex and challenging injuries to treat. Because these fractures are located in the weight-bearing part of the knee, they can have a major impact on patients' lives and their ability to resume activities such as sports or work. Currently, there remains much uncertainty regarding the relationship between injury mechanisms, treatment, fracture characteristics (e.g. radiographic measurements), and functional outcomes. This makes it difficult to adequately inform patients about their expected recovery.
This dissertation by Thijs Vaartjes focuses on patient-reported functional outcomes throughout the entire treatment trajectory of tibial plateau fractures, from injury to treatment and recovery during the rehabilitation period.
The first part of this thesis showed that tibial plateau fractures require a thorough initial assessment of the injury mechanism, fracture pattern, and direction of forces during injury. This provides important information regarding potential associated injuries and expected outcomes, allowing for more patient-specific treatment.
The second part demonstrated that patients with minimally displaced tibial plateau fractures benefit most from nonoperative treatment, whereas more severe fractures require adequate operative fracture reduction and restoration of knee alignment to increase the odds of a full recovery.
The third part showed the course of recovery and long-lasting effects on functional outcomes after tibial plateau fractures. Although patients regain sufficient function to perform daily activities, the injury has a significant impact on their ability to participate in sports. Therefore, these fractures can have a major personal and societal impact.