Anterolateral tibial plateau osteotomy as a new approach for the treatment of posterolateral tibial plateau fracture

RATIONALE It is challenging to visualize and reduce a posterolateral tibial plateau fracture through an anterolateral approach as the tibial plateau fragments are often covered by the fibular head and ligamentous structures. PATIENT CONCERNS In this case report, we describe a patient with a depression fracture of the posterolateral quadrant combined with a split fracture of the posteromedial quadrant and an avulsion fracture of the tibial intercondylar eminence. DIAGNOSES Tibial plateau fracture(AO type 41-B3). INTERVENTIONS A posteromedial approach combined with an anterolateral approach and an osteotomy involving the proximal tibiofibular joint of the tibial plateau was used to expose, reduce, and fix the fracture. OUTCOMES There was no risk of injury to the common peroneal nerve or ligaments. The patient is recovering well and is satisfied with the function of the injured knee. LESSONS We recommend anterolateral tibial plateau osteotomy for the treatment of posterolateral tibial plateau fractures in clinical practice.