Intraoperative three-dimensional imaging in tibial plateau fractures with complex depressions

Introduction: The aim of the study was to investigate the role of the intra-operative three-dimensional imaging in the tibial plateau fractures with complex depressions. Material and methods: Thirty tibial plateau fracture patients with complex depression were treated with the use of intra-operative three-dimensional imaging (Arcadis 3D). The image quality as well as the clinical benefit was evaluated. Results: In total 74 plates were used in these 30 patients. Six Kirschner wires and 50 screws were used outside the plate as raft technique in 4 and 21 patients. The additional critical imaging information which was unachievable in plain fluoroscopy was gain in 12 patients. Four patients among these 12 patients were revised because of the depression. Two patients were revised due to the misplacement of screws. Conclusion: The intra-operative three-dimensional imaging (Arcadis) is necessary when the two-dimensional fluoroscopy was unsatisfactory in the depressed tibial plateau fracture.