Tibial Plateau

condyli tibiae

The tibial plateau comprises the medial and lateral condyles of the proximal tibia, providing the tibial articular surface of the knee joint. The medial plateau is concave and bears approximately 60 percent of the knee load; the lateral plateau is convex and bears 40 percent. Both plateaus are deepened by the medial and lateral menisci. The tibial spine (intercondylar eminence) between the plateaus serves as the attachment site for the cruciate ligaments.

Region: Knee

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Tibial plateau fractures from axial loading are classified by the Schatzker system (I through VI) based on fracture pattern and condyle involvement. CT is mandatory for fracture characterisation before surgical planning. The critical issue is articular congruity restoration and fracture stability — step-off greater than 3 mm in the articular surface and widening of the plateau greater than 5 mm require surgical fixation. Bicondylar fractures (Schatzker V and VI) are complex and associated with vascular and soft tissue injuries requiring careful pre-operative planning.