Pes anserine detachment in posteromedial approach to the tibial plateau fracture provides better intraoperative exposure without compromising the flexor muscle strength

Purpose: During the posteromedial approach to the tibial plateau fracture (TPF), pes anserine is generally retracted. However, pes anserine detachment could provide a better fracture site exposure. Even so, the general conception is that the latter could negatively affect flexor muscle strength. We aimed to evaluate the effect of pes anserine detachment on the flexion force and functional outcomes of TPF with posteromedial involvement.

Methods: In this retrospective-prospective cohort study, 22 TPF patients with Schatzker type IV who were managed with posteromedial approach and pes anserine detachment were included. The knee flexion force was measured 12 months after the surgery at several angles of flexion (30°, 60°, and 90°) and rotations (internal and external). The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were used to assess knee function. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to measure knee pain.

Results: The mean strength of the knee flexor muscle was not statistically different between the involved and non-involved sides at 30°, 60°, and 90° knee flexion, and also at the internal and external rotation. The mean IKDC score of the patients was 81.6 ± 7.8. The mean KOOS score of the patients was 82.2 ± 9.1. The mean VAS for pain was 2.4 ± 1.8. The mean knee range of motion was 124 ± 10.5°.

Conclusion: Pes anserine release and re-attachment in the posteromedial approach to the TPF has no detrimental effect on the flexion muscle strength and knee function.

Level of evidence: Therapeutic Level IV.