Michael B. Cannone, DO
Hip & Knee Reconstruction
Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture
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. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
What is a Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture?
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 break is classified as a displaced fracture.
In addition to being classified as either a displaced or a 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:
- Schatzker I: Lateral tibial plateau fracture without articular depression
- Schatzker II: Lateral tibial plateau fracture with depression
- Schatzker III: Compression fracture of the lateral or central tibial plateau
- Schatzker IV: Medial tibial plateau fracture
- Schatzker V: Bicondylar tibial plateau fracture
- Schatzker VI: Tibial plateau fracture with diaphyseal discontinuity
What Are Signs of a Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture?
Tibial plateau fractures can cause various symptoms, including:
- Knee pain
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Reduced joint stability
- Reduced range of knee movement
- Paleness in your lower leg
- Bruising and soft tissue swelling
What Are Causes of Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fractures?
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.
Risk Factors for Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fractures
Your risk of a tibial plateau fracture increases if you have osteoporosis or another mineral deficiency that weakens your bones.
Diagnosis of Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture
Diagnosis of non-displaced tibial plateau fractures begins with a physical examination. Your provider will also order imaging tests such as plain radiographs and a CT scan.
Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture Treatment Options
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 specialists 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.
Non-Surgical Treatment
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.
- Joint stiffness and instability are common in these injuries, as the break can also cause anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and lateral meniscal tears.
Surgical Treatment
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.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture?
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 specialist feel are best.
Make an Appointment with an OrthoNeuro Knee Specialist Today!
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 many convenient locations throughout Greater Columbus.
We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of treatment is best for you. Call us today to schedule a consultation!
Medically reviewed by Scott A. Smith, MD, FAAOS
Related Services
- Knee Pain
- Knee Injuries
- Knee Arthritis
- Knock Knees
- Locked Knees
- Stiff Knees
- MCL & PCL Tear
- Meniscus Tear
- Knee Stress Fracture
- Patella Tendon Tear
- Patella Instability
- Muscle & Tendon Strains
- Water on the Knee
- Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture
- Non-Displaced Tibial Plateau Fracture
- Joint Dislocations
- Hamstring Injury
- Knee Injections
- ACL Repair
- Meniscus Repair
- Partial Knee Replacement
- Total Knee Replacement
- Robotic-Assisted Partial Knee Replacement
- Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement
Our Specialists
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.
James C. Cassandra, DO
Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon
B. Rodney Comisar, MD, FAAOS
Orthopedic Surgeon / Sports Medicine
Jeffrey E. Gittins, DO
Orthopedic Surgeon / Sports Medicine
Mark E. Gittins, DO
Hip & Knee Reconstruction
Keith A. LaDu, DO
Orthopedic Surgeon / Sports Medicine
Gary M. Millard, DO
Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon
Scott P. Stephens, MD
Orthopedic Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon
Desmond J. Stutzman, DO
Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon
“I love this group of Doctors. They have specialists to cover what ever part of the body is in need of treatment. Every doctor i have seen in this practice have had a very good bedside manner and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend this practice for all your orthopedic and neurological needs”
Teresa H.
Patient
