Fractures of the tibial plateau represent only 1% to 2% of all fractures but account for approximately 8% of fractures occurring in the elderly. They follow a bimodal distribution and typically involve either active young patients after high-energy trauma or older osteoporotic patients after falling down.
Themechanismofinjuryisverycomplexandusuallyisacombinationofrotational and axial compression forces; these fractures are often associated with intra-articular lesions and soft tissue damage such as chondral damage, meniscal tear, and ligaments rupture.
The main goals of treatment of tibial plateau fractures are to restore joint congruity, restore alignment of articular surface, re-establish the knee joint stability, recreate proper knee alignment, and allow for early knee range of motion.
Arthroscopy is a valuable tool for the treatment of tibial plateau fractures. It was first described in the 1980s, Compared to ORIF this technique allows direct and better vision of articular surface reduction, joint lavage and removal of hematoma and small fracture fragments through a less invasive procedure. It also allows the surgeons to diagnose and treat associated intra-articular soft tissue lesions.