What is a tibial plateau fracture?

A tibial plateau fracture is a type of fracture that occurs at the top of the tibia or shinbone which connects to the knee joint. This type of fracture typically happens as a result of a high-impact trauma, such as a fall from a height, a car accident, or a sports injury.

Symptoms of a tibial plateau fracture may include severe pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty in bearing weight on the affected leg. Patients may also experience instability in the knee joint, loss of range of motion, and joint effusion.

Treatment for a tibial plateau fracture usually involves immobilization of the affected leg with a cast or brace, followed by physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility. In some cases, surgery may be necessary if the fracture is severe and requires internal fixation with screws, plates or pins.

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient's overall health. In general, it can take several weeks to several months to fully recover from a tibial plateau fracture, and rehabilitation is a crucial part of the recovery process.