Michael B. Cannone, DO
Orthopedic Surgeon
What is a non-displaced tibial plateau fracture, and how is it treated?
If you injure your knee in a fall, sports accident, or automobile collision, it’s critical to see an orthopedist for expert diagnosis and treatment.
Non-displaced tibial plateau fractures are common in these types of accidents and can cause long-term complications, including compartment syndrome, when untreated.
The orthopedic knee specialists at OrthoNeuro in Columbus, Ohio, offer expert care for all types of knee injuries.
Your tibial plateau is the flat surface at the top of your tibia (shin bone), where it meets the bottom of your femur in the knee joint.
It’s a crucial weight-bearing part of the body that provides stability in your knee and throughout the rest of your body.
Tibial plateau fractures occur when a force drives the femur into the top of your tibia and cracks the bone.
If the bone stays in place, the fracture is non-displaced. If bone fragments shift, the fracture is classified as displaced.
In addition to being classified as either displaced or non-displaced, these injuries are also graded on the Schatzker classification system, which has six types, based on the fracture pattern and severity of the injury.
The six types of tibial plateau fractures are:
Tibial plateau fractures can cause various symptoms, including:
Tibial plateau fractures are typically due to some type of trauma.
For example, these injuries are common in high-impact sports, like football, or those with a high risk of collision, such as skiing.
You could also fracture your tibial plateau by falling from a height or during motor vehicle accidents.
Your risk of a tibial plateau fracture increases if you have osteoporosis or another mineral deficiency that weakens your bones.
The first step in treating a non-displaced tibial plateau fracture is confirming your injury and evaluating the severity of the fracture.
The orthopedic knee experts at OrthoNeuro will examine your knee and use X-rays and MRIs to learn more about your injury and determine the best treatment to heal your bone and relieve your pain.
When possible, your doctor may provide non-surgical treatment.
They may prescribe medication to prevent infection and support bone growth combined with a cast or another knee immobilizer, such as a hinged knee brace.
You may also benefit from physical therapy to help you return to normal function as quickly and safely as possible.
When necessary, the knee experts at OrthoNeuro will perform surgical reconstruction of your tibia and related connective tissue.
They may use internal fixation, such as screws or pins, to stabilize the joint surface and repair soft tissue injuries.
The time needed to recover from a non-displaced tibial plateau fracture depends on the severity of the break.
On average, most patients need between 3-6 months to recover completely and regain full function of their knee.
If you’ve sustained a knee injury, call OrthoNeuro or make an appointment online for expert diagnosis and treatment.
The decision of what treatments are best for you will be determined by what you and your OrthoNeuro Specialist feel are best.
If you have been suffering from a non-displaced tibial plateau fracture, schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons at one of our 7 convenient locations throughout Greater Columbus
We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of treatment is best for you.
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IF YOU HAVE A SEVERE KNEE INJURY OR CHRONIC KNEE PAIN THAT REDUCES YOUR MOBILITY OR QUALITY OF LIFE, CONTACT ORTHONEURO TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION. OUR EXPERT ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS ARE ON HAND TO DIAGNOSE AND TREAT YOUR KNEE PROBLEM.
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