OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to emphasize the role of Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) as an adjuvant diagnostic tool for tibial plateau fractures, concerning the establishment of a relationship between bone fracture patterns and ligament and/ or menisci injuries. METHODS: Evaluation of image database of 25 patients victims of tibial plateau fractures. A correlation between bone and soft tissues has been established, based on Schatzker classification for tibial plateal fractures. RESULTS: 96% of these patients presented with associated menisci in- juries and 44% of them were diagnosed with associated liga- ment injuries. A correlation was established between fracture pattern, according to Schatzker classification, and soft tissue lesions detected by MRI. Fractures types I and II of Schatzker had association with lateral meniscus injury in 71,4% and 83,3%, respectively. Fractures of medial tibial plateau (Schatzker IV) were associated with ligament injuries in 75% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: The authors conclude that MRI is a valuable and recommendable diagnostic method, enhancing the understanding of the injury and supporting preoperative planning and decision-making.
Tibial Plateau Fracture; Meniscal Injury; Ligament Injury
