Contents
- fractures involving the proximal 10-12 cm of the tibia (largely cancellous bone)
- lateral fractures more common than medial
Mechanism
- axial loading (e.g. fall from height)
- femoral condyles driven into proximal tibia
- can result from minor trauma in osteoporotics
linical Features
- severe pain and swelling of the knee
- instability upon attempts to weightbear
Investigations
- x-rays: AP, lateral, skyline
- Schatzker classification (see image)
Schatzker Classification
Treatment
- if depression on x-ray is <3 mm
- straight leg immobilization x 4-6 weeks with progressive ROM weight bearing
- if depression is >3 mm
- ORIF often requiring bone grafting to elevate depressed fragment
Complications
- ligamentous injuries
- delayed union
- infection
- decreased knee mobility/stiffness
- post-traumatic arthritis
- meniscal lesions
- AVN
