Hybrid external fixation in complex tibial plateau and plafond fractures: an Australian audit of outcomes

Hybrid external fixators are useful for the management of complex tibial plateau and plafond fractures, as they provide rigid fixation with relatively minimal soft tissue disruption. We reviewed the outcomes of patients with proximal (plateau) and distal (plafond) tibial fractures who were treated with hybrid frames at the Royal North Shore Hospital from 1998 to 2001. Twenty-four patients were identified from the hospital operating records and chart, X-ray and clinical reviews were performed. Follow-up periods averaged 13 months. Fractures were classified using the Ruedi classification for ankle fractures, and the Schatzker classification for the knee fractures. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Iowa knee score and the AOFAS ankle score. As one of the first Australian audits our outcomes were consistent with international standards.