Tibial plateau fracture (TPF) includes different fracture patterns with varied degrees of articular depression and displacement. Many kinds of fixators, including newly designed plate with locking screws, were applied to treat these complicated fractures. We intended to follow up the surgical outcomes of (1) unilateral locking plate, (2) classic dual plates, or (3) hybrid dual plates for TPF.

Object: The authors measured the range of motion (ROM) of the spine in healthy individuals by using an electromagnetic tracking device to evaluate the functional performance of the spine. Methods: The authors used the Flock of Birds electromagnetic tracking device with 4 receiver units attached to C-7, T-12, S-1, and the midthigh region. Forward/backward bending, bilateral side bending, and axial rotation of the trunk were performed in 18 healthy individuals. Results: The average ROM was calculated after 3 consecutive measurements. The thoracic spine generated the greatest angle in axial rotation and smallest angle in backward bending. The lumbar spine generated the greatest angle in forward bending and smallest angle in axial rotation. The hip joints generated the greatest angle in forward bending and smallest angle in backward bending. Additionally, 40% of forward-bending motion occurred in the lumbar spine and 40% occurred in the hip joints. Approximately 60% of backward bending occurred in the lumbar spine; 60% of axial rotation occurred in the thoracic spine; and 45% of side bending occurred in the thoracic spine. Conclusions: The Flock of Birds electromagnetic tracking device cannot only measure the ROM of spine but also easily differentiate the 6-degree contributions by different segments.

Conservative treatment had previously been used in our institution to treat the painful stiff knee joint following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the result was not satisfactory. Arthroscopic surgery was then performed in 11 patients with painful knee joints with limited motion who had previously undergone TKA. Good results were achieved in eight patients. An average improvement of 56.3 degrees was achieved for knee range of motion. Flexion improved up to 90 degrees in all patients in the early postoperative period following arthroscopy. However, the benefits declined with time. To avoid the potential complications of manipulation and open arthrotomy, arthroscopic surgery is an option for treating the painful stiff knee joint.