How serious is a tibial plateau fracture?

How serious is a tibial plateau fracture?

In summary, tibial plateau fractures are serious injuries, usually associated with soft-tissue complications. Staged treatment is recommended in severe cases. Minimally-invasive osteosynthesis, when possible, is recommended in partial articular fractures.

How long do tibial plateau fractures take to heal?

Non-displaced tibial plateau fractures take up to 3-4 months without surgery to heal. When surgery is required these cases take around 4 months to heal.

Can you walk on a fractured tibial plateau?

After you break your tibial plateau it will be very painful, and you will most likely not be able to walk on it. You will likely need to go to an emergency room because of the pain.

How do you strengthen your legs after a tibial plateau fracture?

Straight leg raise exercises (lying, seated, and standing), quadriceps/straight ahead plane only. No side-lying leg raises. Range of motion exercises. Hip and foot/ankle exercises, well-leg stationary cycling, upper body conditioning.

How do you shower with a tibial plateau fracture?

It is ok to shower or sponge bathe 2 days after surgery but you must keep your knee clean and dry. This usually entails keeping your leg outside the shower, using saran wrap or a large plastic bag to protect your wounds. At your first clinic visit Dr. Patel will tell you when you can shower normally.

How long before you can put weight on a tibial plateau fracture?

If your fracture can be treated without surgery, you may be kept in a brace or a splint for a period of time. Generally, you will not be allowed to put weight on your leg for 6 to 12 weeks.

How do you start weight bearing after tibial plateau fracture?

Begin partial weight bearing at 25% of body weight and increase by 25% approximately every 3 days. May progress to one crutch at 71/2 weeks as tolerated, gradually wean off of crutches by week 8 – 9.

When should I start weight bearing after a tibial plateau fracture?

After twelve weeks, patients can be full weight bearing if there is radiographic evidence of healing. In unstable fractures, NWB is maintained for twelve weeks with progression determined by radiograph and surgeon’s preference.