Quantifying Quadriceps Atrophy Following Tibial Plateau Fracture
United States13 participantsStarted 2015-10
Plain-language summary
This study will quantify and examine the extent to which the quadriceps femoris muscle group atrophies following tibial plateau fractures and the length of time that atrophy affects function. The study will also look at the effects of tibial plateau fractures on the quadriceps muscle and the effect this atrophy has on functional outcome. Quadriceps atrophy will be measured both clinically and by using MRI scans taken pre-operatively, 3 months post operatively, and 1 year post-operatively. The injured leg and the non-injured leg will be scanned in order for the non-injured leg to serve as the control. In this way muscle volume can be estimated from the muscle thickness at specific locations in the thigh. The muscle strength of the quadriceps will also be assessed at the 3 month and 1 year visit by measuring isokinetic knee-extension torque, and functional assessment questionnaires will be completed at each study visit.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* All racial and ethnic groups
* Diagnosis of tibial plateau fracture
* Patients who opt for surgical treatment or non-operative treatment of their fracture
* Patients who consent to undergoing 3 MRI scans
* Patients who are willing to follow-up for a minimum of 52 weeks
Exclusion Criteria:
* Patients younger than 18 years old or older than 65
* Patients who may be pregnant or may become pregnant in the 52 weeks following injury
* Patients who have electric, magnetic, or mechanical devices currently implanted
* Patients who have abnormal ECG results
* Diagnosis of any additional lower extremity fractures other than tibial plateau
* Patients who fit the definition of a vulnerable population
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.