[The randomized controlled trial of influences of T shape approach on the function of knee joint in the treatment of proximal tibial fractures].
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the clinical value of T shape approach in the treatment of proximal tibial fractures.


METHODS
One handrend and thirteen patients of proximal tibial fractures were randomly divided into two groups. Group A: 62 cases underwent the traditional exposure approach. According to Schatzker classification,the cases of II to VI type was 25, 10, 16, 6, 5 respectively. Group B:51 cases underwent T shape approach ahead of knee joint, the cases of II to VI type was 21, 8, 13, 5, 4 respectively. All data were analyzed by SPSS 10.0 to compare operation time, blood loss, duration of hospitalization, healing time, the time of osseous union and complications after operation.


RESULTS
Sixty patients in group A and 50 patients in group B were followed-up from 12 to 24 months. (1) Operation time:group B was longer than A (P < 0.01). (2) Mean blood loss and duration of hospitalization was the same. (3) Clinical healing time:group B was shorter. (4) Mean time of osseous union: 48 group B was shorter. Function of knee: group B was better than group A. (Complication: group B was less than group A.


CONCLUSIONS
As compared with traditional exposure approach, T shape approach of knee joint had advantages of small scar, fewer complications, faster union of fracture and earlier recovery of joint function. The approach is valuable for the treatment of proximal tibial fractures.
Peng
Wei-xiong
WX
Department of Orthopaedics, Liwan Hospital of Gungzhou Medical College, Guanughou 510170, Guangdong, China. pengweixiong1966@126.com
Zhang
Zhi
Z
Liang
Jie-hong
JH
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*