Tibial plateau fracture

By Michael J. McNulty, M.D.

A tibial plateau fracture is a fracture involving the proximal (upper) portion of the tibia which extends through the articular surface (into the knee joint). It is a serious type of knee injury that can affect all types of athletes.

How does a tibial plateau fracture occur?

Tibial plateau fractures occur by three main mechanisms. The first is by a medial or lateral based force (such as the so called “bumper fracture” when a car’s bumper strikes the outside of a person’s leg creating a valgus, or inward, force across the knee). The second mechanism is by a pure axial, or compressive force (such as a fall from height). The third mechanism is by a combination of both axial and medial or lateral directed force. 

How are they diagnosed? 

Tibial plateau fractures are diagnosed using a combination of physical examination and adjuvant imaging modalities. The entire limb is examined to evaluate the status of the soft tissues, whether there are associated wounds or lacerations (which could indicate an open fracture) as well as the neurologic and vascular status of the limb. The presence of an impending compartment syndrome (uncontrolled rise in the pressure within the limb) is also carefully scrutinized as well as this could require urgent surgical fasciotomies (open decompression of the affected compartment). Common signs of compartment syndrome are full or tense compartments as well as severe or escalating pain with passive stretching of the affected muscles. Later signs include decreased pulses, weakness and paresthesias (sensory changes). Furthermore, the collateral ligaments about the knee – Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) and Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)) are examined as well as the cruciates – Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and Posterior Cruciate Ligaments (PCL), and also the menisci, although this can be difficult given the proximity of the fracture.

Additional imaging modalities include x-rays, CT (Computed Tomography) scans, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and arteriography. The suspected injury is commonly first assessed with standard radiographs (x-rays) and the decision is made whether more advanced imaging techniques are needed. CT scans provide an excellent view of the cross-sectional and bony anatomy that provide the surgeon with a 3-dimensional depiction of the fracture. MRI is most helpful in delineating the potential soft tissue injuries associated with the fracture, particularly the medial and lateral meniscus, ACL, PCL as well the MCL and posterolateral corner structures of the knee. Arteriogram is considered when there is a suspected vascular injury. When there are unequal pulses or any other signs of vascular insufficiency, an arteriogram is the gold standard for evaluation of an arterial injury.

How are tibial plateau fractures classified? 

Like all fractures, tibial plateau fractures can be described as either displaced (fracture fragments separated from each other) or non-displaced. Most tibial plateau fractures fall into two broad categories; low energy mechanisms (falls from standing) in geriatric patients versus high-energy mechanisms (motor vehicle collisions) in younger patients. Finally, another commonly used system for the classification of tibial plateau fractures is the Schatzker classification system that is determined from x-rays of the fracture.

What other injuries are associated with tibial plateau fractures? 

Injuries to other structures about the knee are commonly associated with tibial plateau fractures. Meniscus tears as well as injuries to the articular cartilage commonly occur in the setting of tibial plateau fractures. Fractures of the lateral tibial plateau have a rare, but possible association with nerve (peroneal) and arterial injuries. Fractures of the medial tibial plateau can sometimes signify a knee dislocation that has spontaneously reduced. High energy tibial plateau fractures, particularly those that extend into the diaphysis, or shaft, can also be associated with compartment syndrome, which is a potentially limb threatening condition caused by increased pressure within the leg.

Plateau fractures treatment 

Tibial plateau fractures can be treated both surgically and non-surgically, depending on the nature of the fracture.

When and how can they be treated non-surgically? 

Initially, sports injury treatment using the P.R.I.C.E. principle – Protection, Rest, Icing, Compression, Elevation can be applied to a tibial plateau fracture. Nondisplaced fractures of the tibial plateau can often be treated non-operatively with a period of non-weight bearing with a hinged knee brace. Any period of limb immobilization should be kept brief as knee stiffness must be avoided. The knee is commonly locked in full extension for 1-2 weeks with the amount of flexion gradually increasing with time.

The most important factors in determining the necessity of surgery are mechanical alignment of the limb as well as the articular congruity. The mechanical alignment refers to the mechanical axis of the lower extremity. Injuries that alter the axis of the limb, particularly those that place the patient in varus (“bow-legged”) alignment have a poorer prognosis. Fractures that involve a step-off or incongruity of the articular cartilage also have a guarded prognosis, although the exact amount of displacement that is considered significant is controversial.

When and how can they be treated surgically? 

Surgery is indicated for open fractures, displaced fractures and fractures that alter the mechanical alignment of the limb. Temporary knee spanning external fixation is indicated for high-energy fractures with significant soft tissue injury. Definitive fracture fixation can be achieved by a variety of approaches and methods, the exact techniques of which are beyond the scope of this article. Generally, however, tibial plateau fractures can be surgically treated by two main techniques.

The first is external fixation. External fixation involves placing metal pins or wires into the tibia and possibly the femur that are then connected external to the body to allow distraction and reduction of the fracture. Temporary external fixation is considered the treatment of choice for high-energy fractures with a compromised soft tissue envelope (deep wounds or bruising to the tissue around the fracture). External fixation can also be considered for definitive treatment although the knee joint is often immobilized which can lead to stiffness. There is also a variant of external fixation referred to as the Ilizarov or hybrid fixator technique that can be used and does not involve the knee joint.

The other surgical technique involves the uses of plate and/or screw fixation. The skin is incised medially, laterally and/or posteriorly depending on the nature of the fracture and the fracture fragments are reduced and fixed with metallic screws and possible plates. This technique allows anatomic reduction of the joint, restoration of the alignment of the limb, and joint mobility but compromises soft tissues and possible periosteal (outer bone layer) stripping which raises the possibility of infection and nonunion. The implants (plate and screws) are often left in the patient for life but can be sometimes removed after bony healing if the hardware becomes painful or cosmetically unacceptable.

Two other surgical techniques warrant mention. The first is arthroscopy that can be used as an adjuvant to fracture fixation as it allows a minimally invasive method to evaluate joint congruity without requiring an open joint exposure. The second involves using bone graft or bone graft substitute to reinforce fracture fixation as well as filling bony voids caused by the injury. The bone graft can be harvested locally or from another location on the body (commonly the iliac crest). This is referred to as autograft. The bone can also come from a sterilized cadaveric donor. This is referred to as allograft. There are also many types of bone graft substitutes that can be used as well, all varying in their structural and biologic properties.

What are the complications associated with tibial plateau fractures? 

Several complications are associated with the nonoperative and operative treatment of tibial plateau fractures. With both methods, nonunion (failure to heal, or unite) of the fracture can occur. Articular (cartilage) injury to the knee joint occurring during the trauma itself can lead to post-traumatic arthritis of the joint. Arthrofibrosis (stiffness) of the joint can occur if range of motion exercises are not instituted early enough after the injury. Infection can also occur post-operatively, particularly if surgery is done through compromised soft tissues. Deep venous thrombosis (blood clots in the leg and thigh veins) can occur secondary to the trauma or prolonged immobilization. Residual swelling of the limb can occur in the post-operative limb and is more commonly associated with high-energy fractures. Finally, unrecognized menisci or ligamentous injuries associated with the fracture can cause significant morbidity.

What is the outcome of tibial plateau fracture? 

Since the tibial plateau involves a major weight bearing joint, the outcome is tied significantly to the resultant alignment and articular congruity after fracture healing. If the joint is stable with good alignment, articular congruity and no loss of joint motion, good results can be expected. If infection, nonunion, cartilage injury or associated soft tissue injuries are not addressed, the outcome is much more guarded.


Skeletal Trauma: Basic science, management and reconstruction / Bruce D. Browner et al. 3rd edition

Nonarticular Proximal Tibia Fractures: Treatment Options and Decision Making. Christopher M. Bono et. Al. JAAOS 2001;9:176-186

High Energy Tibial Plateau Fractures. Eric M. Berkson et al. JAAOS 2008;14:20-31.

Tibial Plateau Fracture: Evaluation and Treatment. Kenneth J. Koval et. Al. JAAOS 1995;3:86-94.

