How effective is fracture fixation surgery for tibial plateau fracture?

The tibial plateau is the upper surface of the shin bone that meets the thigh bone at the knee. A fracture may leave this surface depressed, split, or unstable. Fixation uses plates, screws, or another stabilising method to hold the pieces in a useful position while bone healing takes place.

Successful fixation does not erase cartilage injury, swelling, muscle loss, or stiffness. A complex fracture may take longer to regain bending and straightening, and altered joint loading can contribute to later arthritis. Your orthopaedic team can relate the scan findings to expected movement and weight-bearing milestones.

Keep the leg elevated as advised and protect it from unapproved loading. Use crutches or a frame as taught, and keep dressings and the incision clean. Early ankle movement can help maintain circulation when it is permitted.

Physiotherapy usually progresses from swelling control and gentle knee movement to quadriceps activation, balance, and walking strength. Home exercises work best when performed consistently without forcing a swollen joint. Driving, work, stairs, and sport each need individual clearance.

Seek prompt medical advice for worsening pain that is not controlled as expected, increasing redness or drainage, fever, new numbness, a cold or pale foot, or rapidly increasing calf swelling. Emergency help is needed for sudden breathlessness or chest pain.

Ask how the fracture affects the joint surface, when partial and full weight bearing may begin, which knee movements are safe, how hardware will be followed, and what level of stiffness or arthritis risk is realistic for your injury.