Tibial plateau fracture

Tibial Plateau Fracture

A tibial plateau fracture involves a break at the top of the tibia (shinbone) where it meets the knee joint, affecting the stability and alignment of the knee. This type of fracture can significantly impact knee mechanics and lead to issues with mobility and knee function. Given the tibia's critical role in weight-bearing, tibial plateau fractures are complex injuries that require careful management to prevent long-term complications, such as arthritis and knee instability.

Lateral Tibial Plateau fracture CT with Depression

Introduction

The tibial plateau is the upper surface of the tibia, a critical area that supports the weight of the body and distributes it across the knee joint. Fractures to this area can vary in severity from simple cracks that do not affect the knee joint's stability to severe fractures that involve displacement and necessitate surgical intervention.

X-ray showing a tibial plateau fracture.

Causes

Tibial plateau fractures typically result from high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights. They can also occur due to lower energy mechanisms, like sports-related injuries, in individuals with weaker bone structure, including the elderly or those with osteoporosis.

Types

There are several types of tibial plateau fractures, classified based on the fracture's location and pattern. The Schatzker classification system is commonly used to categorize these fractures into six types, ranging from lateral plateau fractures (most common) to complex fractures involving both plateaus.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a tibial plateau fracture include:

• Severe pain and swelling in the knee
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Visible deformity or depression in the knee area
• Limited knee movement

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a physical examination and imaging tests, including X-rays to confirm the presence of a fracture and CT scans or MRIs to assess the fracture's complexity and involvement of surrounding soft tissues.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the fracture's severity and can range from non-operative methods, such as casting and bracing for stable fractures, to surgical intervention for more complex or displaced fractures. Surgical options may include internal fixation to realign and stabilize the fracture or knee replacement in severe cases.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is crucial for recovery, focusing on restoring knee function and strength. Physical therapy plays a significant role in helping patients regain mobility and prevent stiffness.

Prevention

Preventing tibial plateau fractures involves minimizing risk factors, such as improving bone density through diet and exercise, using protective gear during high-risk activities, and ensuring safety measures are in place to prevent falls and accidents.

See Also

• Fracture
• Orthopedic surgery
• Physical therapy
• Osteoporosis

External Links

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - Tibial Plateau Fractures
• National Center for Biotechnology Information - Tibial Plateau Fractures

References

• "Tibial Plateau Fractures: Management and Expected Results." Clinics in Orthopedic Surgery.
• "Schatzker Classification of Tibial Plateau Fractures: Use in Clinical Practice." Journal of Trauma Management & Outcomes.

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