Proximal Tibial Fractures

Proximal tibial fractures consist of 8% of all fractures in the elderly. The mechanism of injury is commonly lower energy in simple falls while ambulatory patients with higher energy mechanisms in motor vehicle and cycling accidents are also common. High energy related soft tissue conditions are rarer yet challenging to handle. Because of osteoporosis and bone metabolic disorders, articular depression and sizable cancellous defects are common. Medical comorbidities and coexisting osteoarthritis impose unique management challenges. The recovery of elderly patients is critically affected by comorbidities. Mobilization regimens favour early weight bearing. Prolonged immobilization in the elderly is associated with deconditioning and medical complications such as pressure sores, chest and urinary tract infections, loss of muscle mass, and contractures and should be avoided.