Compression fractures of the lateral condyle of the tibia occur chiefly in elderly persons. Compression injury of the central and posterior parts of the condyle often leaves the stability of the extended knee-joint unaffected. 40 patients with central and posterior depression showed normal stability of the extended knee-joint, despite depression of the lateral joint surface between 5 and 20 mm. All were treated without operation and functional recovery was excellent. It is suggested that such fractures should be treated with early active exercises. Weight bearing may be allowed after a few weeks because the risk of secondary displacement is almost nil. Neither operation nor long-term immobilization is indicated in the treatment of these injuries.
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Compression fractures of the lateral condyle of the tibia occur chiefly in elderly persons. Compression injury of the central and posterior parts of the condyle often leaves the stability of the extended knee-joint unaffected. 40 patients with central and posterior depression showed normal stability of the extended knee-joint, despite depression of the lateral joint surface between 5 and 20 mm. All were treated without operation and functional recovery was excellent. It is suggested that such fractures should be treated with early active exercises. Weight bearing may be allowed after a few weeks because the risk of secondary displacement is almost nil. Neither operation nor long-term immobilization is indicated in the treatment of these injuries.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.