Insufficiency Fracture of the Tibial Plateau: A Disease of Rare Diagnosis

Eric Chun Pu Chu

doi:10.4172/2329-9509.1000138

Abstract

A 52-year-old woman with diabetes and a known cancer complained of non-traumatic knee pain for two weeks duration. Her initial radiographs and clinical findings were inconclusive. However, subsequent work-up including bone scan and MRI suggests an insufficiency fracture of the left tibial plateau. Tibial plateau fractures may directly extend to the articular surfaces of the weight-bearing joint. Insufficiency fracture of the tibial plateau is a rare diagnosis. Delayed diagnosis can cause persistent knee pain and can lead to deformity of the joint. A high index of suspicion and appropriate imaging greatly assist in an early diagnosis and in minimizing major morbidity.

Highlights

In general insufficiency fractures (IFs) are commonly seen in the spine, sacrum, femoral neck or pelvis
Stress fractures are classified into fatigue fracture and insufficiency fractures (IFs)
IFs differ from fatigue fractures, in that the bone is weakened in terms of mineralization, elasticity and ability of repairs, and so physiological or normal activity can result in fractures [3]

Summary

Introduction

In general insufficiency fractures (IFs) are commonly seen in the spine, sacrum, femoral neck or pelvis. IF of the tibial plateau is a rare diagnosis [1,2]. This disease of the knee is often missed because of non-specific clinical features and absence of traumatic history [1,2]. Tibial plateau fractures may involve the joint surfaces, and affect alignment, stability and motion of the knee, one of the critical weight-bearing joints in the human body. Diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important in preventing joint complications and minimizing major morbidity

Case report

Discussion