E4938. Navigating the Equator: The Explorers Simple Guide to the Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors
Andres Gorbea;
Universidad Central Del Caribe
Christian Irizarry Cruz;
Universidad de Puerto Rico
Jorge Vidal;
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Background
Tibial plateau fractures make up more than 2% of all bone fractures. The tibial plateau is a weight-bearing area on the proximal end of the lower leg that, on injury, exhibits a wide range of clinical implications using imaging techniques. These fractures have been classified into six different types according to their morphological features, termed the Schatzker classification system. This classification system is critical in determining injury management, the viability of surgical repair, and articular rehabilitation.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
After reading this presentation, the viewer should be more confident describing tibial plateau fractures, emphasizing the descriptors that would make their report more useful for surgical management and patient care. The viewer will gain a deeper understanding of the column system of the tibial plateau and the biomechanical implications of different types of fractures.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
This presentation describes the definition of tibial plateau fractures, illustrates the different types of tibial plateau fractures using the Schatzker classification system, and provides case examples of tibial fractures in conventional radiography, as well as with the 3D capabilities of CT. We also offer the best next step in management for these types of fractures.
Conclusion
This study aims to bring awareness to radiologists of the different types of tibial plateau fractures to implement the revised classification system on radiological evaluation and provide relevant findings for improving injury management and prognosis.
