Early weight bearing in tibial plateau fractures treated with ORIF: a systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND: To review the current clinical evidence on advantages and risks of early weight bearing (EWB) after internal fixation for tibial plateau fracture. METHODS: Data source: PubMed and Google Scholar from inception of database to 20 August 2021, using PRISMA guidelines. The included studies were randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective observational studies, case reports. Data extraction was performed independently by 2 reviewers. Collected data were compared to verify agreement. Statistical analysis was not performed in this study. RESULTS: The literature search produced 174 papers from PubMed and 186 from Google Scholar, with a total amount of 360 papers. The two reviewers excluded 301 papers by title or duplicates. Of the 59 remaining, 33 were excluded after reading the abstract, and 17 by reading the full text. Thus, 9 papers were finally included in the review. CONCLUSIONS: EWB can be considered safe and effective in selected cases after internal fixation for tibial plateau fractures. Level of evidence Therapeutic Level III.

Early weight bearing in acetabular and pelvic fractures.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK: The incidence of pelvic and acetabular fractures is increasing during the years, counting 37 pelvic fractures per 100000 people annually. No weight bearing or toe touch weight bearing are usually chosen in the initial management to allow fracture and ligamentous healing and avoid fracture displacement and fixation failure. On the other hand, early weight bearing may stimulate fracture healing and allow prompt functional recovery, faster return to work and recreational activities and reduce complications linked to late rehabilitation.  Aim of the study is to review the literature about weight bearing indications for pelvic and acetabular fractures to highlight clinical and biomechanical evidence supporting early weight bearing. METHODS: Two independent reviewers independently extracted studies on early weight bearing of pelvic and acetabular fractures. All selected studies were screened independently based on title and abstract. Then the full text of any article that either judged potentially eligible was acquired and reviewed again. Any disagreement was resolved by discussing the full text manuscripts. RESULTS: 44 studies including reviews, meta-analysis, clinical and biomechanical studies were selected. CONCLUSIONS: Despite biomechanical data, few clinical evidences can be found to support early weight bearing in pelvic and especially acetabular fractures treatment. The promising results of some clinical experiences, however, should direct further studies to clearly define the indications and limits of early weight bearing in these injuries. Recognizing intrinsic lesion stability and bone and fixation technique quality, together with patient age and compliance, should be the mainstay for post-operative management choice.

Fibula fractures management.

Isolated distal fibula fractures represent the majority of ankle fractures. These fractures are often the result of a low-energy trauma with external rotation and supination mechanism. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and radiographic exam. Stress X-rays have a role in detecting associated mortise instability. Management depends on fracture type, displacement and associated ankle instability. For simple, minimally displaced fractures without ankle instability, conservative treatment leads to excellent results. Conservative treatment must also be considered in overaged unhealthy patients, even in unstable fractures. Surgical treatment is indicated when fracture or ankle instability are present, with several techniques described. Outcome is excellent in most cases. Complications regarding wound healing are frequent, especially with plate fixation, whereas other complications are uncommon.