Combined internal fixation and autologous chondrocyte implantation for tibial plateau fracture concomitant with cartilage injury: a case report

This is the first report of tibia plateau fracture (TPF) concomitant with a large cartilage injury, which was treated with consecutive procedures comprising internal fixation and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). A 49-year-old male patient was diagnosed with a medial tibial plateau fracture concomitant with a large medial femoral condyle cartilage injury. The patient underwent internal fixation and ACI at a 4-week interval. One year after the surgery, he could resume daily activities and sports. Magnetic resonance imaging and arthroscopic findings showed that the injured cartilage was covered by hyaline cartilage-like tissue. TPF concomitant with large cartilage injury can be treated with consecutive internal fixation and ACI procedures, shortening the overall treatment period and favorable outcomes.