The effect of three-dimensional computed tomography reconstructions on preoperative planning of tibial plateau fractures: a case–control series

BACKGROUND: Tibial plateau fractures are a common intra-articular injury for which computed tomography (CT) scans are routinely used for preoperative planning. Three-dimensional reconstructions of CT scans have been increasingly investigated in recent years, however their role has yet to be defined. We wish to investigate the role of three-dimensional computed tomography reconstructions (3D-CT) in the preoperative planning of tibial plateau fractures. METHODS: Twelve cases of tibial plateau fractures including plain film radiographs and conventional CT scans were distributed to 21 observers (orthopaedic residents and consultants). The observers filled out a preoperative plan checklist created for this study. Three months later the same cases were distributed, in random order, this time including 3D-CT reconstructions. The same preoperative checklists were completed, and compared to the previous checklists. RESULTS: The preoperative plan checklist was able to detect differences between cases and between observers. No significant differences were detected between the total plan scores when comparing conventional CT to 3D-CT. Sub-analysis of plan specifics (incisions, hardware, adjuncts) was also not significantly different. The level of training of the observer or the fracture complexity did not affect these results. CONCLUSIONS: No significant changes were made to observer’s preoperative plans with the addition of 3D-CT. 3D-CT reconstructions come at a cost to the system, and therefore their usefulness should be investigated prior to widespread use. Our study demonstrates that the addition of 3D-CT reconstructions to the preoperative workup of tibial plateau fractures did not change management plans when compared to plans made using traditional CT-scans.