TITLE:
Arthroscopic-Assisted Tibial Plateau Fracture Fixation Enables Simultaneous Identification and Management of Associated Intra-Articular Injuries: A Case Series of Eight Patients
AUTHORS:
Hrishinilaavenn Muthusamy, Nishand Guruseelan, Noor Azmi, Leong Yung Chin, Shri Kapilan
KEYWORDS:
Tibial Plateau Fracture, Arthroscopy, Internal Fixation, Arthroscopic-Assisted Reduction, Meniscal Injury, Knee Trauma
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.9,
September
14,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Tibial plateau fractures are complex intra-articular injuries that require accurate restoration of the articular surface to optimize knee function and minimize post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Conventional fluoroscopy-assisted fixation may not adequately detect residual articular incongruity or associated intra-articular soft tissue injuries. Arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) enables direct visualization of the joint surface while simultaneously allowing diagnosis and treatment of concomitant meniscal and ligamentous injuries. Methods: We performed a retrospective case series of patients with tibial plateau fractures treated using arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation at Hospital Selayang. Patient demographics, fracture characteristics, associated intra-articular injuries, surgical technique, radiographic outcomes, fracture union, complications, range of motion, and functional outcomes were reviewed. Arthroscopy was utilized to assess articular reduction, remove loose fragments, and manage associated meniscal injuries where indicated. Results: All patients achieved radiographic union without loss of reduction or implant failure. Anatomical or near-anatomical reduction of the articular surface was obtained in all cases under direct arthroscopic visualization. Associated intra-articular injuries, predominantly meniscal tears, were identified and managed during the same procedure. Patients demonstrated satisfactory postoperative knee range of motion with no major complications such as deep infection, compartment syndrome, or neurovascular injury. Functional outcomes were generally good to excellent at final follow-up. Conclusion: Arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation is a safe and effective technique for selected tibial plateau fractures. It facilitates accurate reduction of the articular surface while enabling simultaneous treatment of associated intra-articular pathology, resulting in favourable radiological and functional outcomes. Larger comparative studies are warranted to further define its advantages over conventional fixation techniques.