-
DE
Tibial Plateau Fracture: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
A tibial plateau fracture is a break at the upper end of the shinbone, affecting the knee joint. It often requires surgical treatment for full recovery.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "Tibial plateau fracture"
A tibial plateau fracture is a break at the upper end of the shinbone, affecting the knee joint. It often requires surgical treatment for full recovery.
What Is a Tibial Plateau Fracture?
A tibial plateau fracture is a break in the upper portion of the tibia (shinbone), specifically at the tibial plateau – the flat, weight-bearing surface that forms the lower part of the knee joint. Because this area is critical for knee stability and movement, such fractures can significantly impair knee function and require prompt medical attention.
Causes
Tibial plateau fractures typically result from high-energy trauma or, in older individuals, from low-energy injuries due to reduced bone density. Common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents (direct impact to the knee)
- Falls from height
- Sports injuries (skiing, football, cycling)
- Direct blows to the knee
- Osteoporosis: In elderly patients, even minor trauma can cause a fracture due to weakened bone structure.
Classification
The most widely used classification system is the Schatzker classification, which divides tibial plateau fractures into six types:
- Type I: Pure split fracture of the lateral plateau
- Type II: Split and depression fracture of the lateral plateau
- Type III: Pure depression fracture of the lateral plateau
- Type IV: Fracture of the medial plateau
- Type V: Bicondylar fracture (both plateaus involved)
- Type VI: Bicondylar fracture with dissociation of the metaphysis and diaphysis
Higher Schatzker types generally indicate more complex and severe injuries.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of a tibial plateau fracture include:
- Severe pain around the knee joint
- Swelling and bruising (hematoma) of the knee
- Limited range of motion in the knee
- Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
- Possible malalignment of the knee (varus or valgus deformity)
- In severe cases: vascular or nerve injury causing numbness or circulatory problems
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is established through clinical examination and imaging studies:
- X-ray: The initial imaging modality to identify the fracture
- Computed tomography (CT): Provides detailed assessment of fracture pattern and fragment displacement – essential for surgical planning
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Evaluates associated soft tissue injuries such as ligament, meniscal, or cartilage damage
- Angiography: Used when vascular injury is suspected
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures without joint instability may be managed conservatively:
- Immobilization and protected weight-bearing (crutches, knee orthosis)
- Physiotherapy to restore mobility and muscle strength
- Regular follow-up X-rays to monitor healing
Surgical Treatment
Most tibial plateau fractures require surgical fixation to restore the joint surface and ensure stable healing. Common surgical approaches include:
- Screw fixation: Stabilization of fragments with screws
- Plate osteosynthesis: Use of metal plates and screws (e.g., locking plates) for stable fixation
- Arthroscopically assisted reduction: Minimally invasive technique for joint surface reconstruction
- Bone graft or bone substitute: Used to fill defects in depression fractures
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is critical to achieving a good functional outcome:
- Gradual return to weight-bearing as directed by the surgeon
- Physiotherapy for joint mobilization, muscle strengthening, and gait training
- Continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy in selected cases
- Full recovery may take several months
Complications
Potential complications associated with tibial plateau fractures include:
- Post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the knee
- Compartment syndrome (elevated pressure within muscle compartments)
- Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Wound infection or implant failure following surgery
- Malalignment or chronic knee instability
References
- Schatzker J, McBroom R, Bruce D. The tibial plateau fracture: the Toronto experience 1968–1975. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 138:94–104, 1979.
- Wasserstein D, Henry P, Paterson JM et al. Risk of total knee arthroplasty after operatively treated tibial plateau fracture. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 96(2):144–150, 2014.
- Zeltser DW, Leopold SS. Classifications in brief: Schatzker classification of tibial plateau fractures. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 471(2):371–374, 2013.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
22,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
50,00 €
Regular price:
59,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
27,90 €
Regular price:
29,90 €
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
35,90 €
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.