Leg/Knee Case 1 History/Physical Exam

Tibial Plateau Fracture

The most common mechanism is an axial load from a fall or motor vehicle collision, but other mechanisms include lateral impact or twisting. There is pain and difficulty bearing weight. Effusion and stiffness are usually present. Physical exam should assess for associated ligamentous instability (60%), compartment syndrome, and peroneal nerve injury (foot drop, paresthesias, positive Tinel's test over fibular head).