Schatzker Classification
Tibial Plateau Fracture Assessment
Select the fracture type based on imaging:
Type I - Lateral Split
I
Pure lateral wedge fracture without depression. Vertical split of lateral plateau.
Mechanism
Valgus force, young patients
Frequency
5-10%
Type II - Lateral Split-Depression
II
Lateral wedge fracture with depression of adjacent articular surface. Most common type.
Mechanism
Valgus + axial load
Frequency
25-30%
Type III - Lateral Pure Depression
III
Central or lateral pure depression without split component. Intact cortical rim.
Mechanism
Axial load, older patients
Frequency
10-15%
Type IV - Medial Plateau
IV
Medial condyle fracture (split or depression). Often associated with ligament injury.
Mechanism
Varus or axial force
Frequency
10-15%
Type V - Bicondylar
V
Both lateral and medial plateaus involved. Metaphysis intact. High-energy injury.
Mechanism
High-energy axial load
Frequency
20-25%
Type VI - Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal
VI
Bicondylar with dissociation between metaphysis and diaphysis. Most severe injury.
Mechanism
High-energy trauma
Frequency
10-15%
Classify Fracture
Type I
Lateral Split Fracture
Schatzker Classification
Fracture Characteristics
Energy Level
Prognosis
Treatment Approach
Key Considerations
New Classification
Reference
Schatzker J, McBroom R, Bruce D. The tibial plateau fracture. The Toronto experience 1968-1975. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1979;(138):94-104.