Fractures of the tibial plateau often associate ligamentous and meniscal injuries. MR imaging is useful for evaluating not only the extent of the fracture depression or displacement but also associated soft-tissue injuries.
We compared the findings of MR imaging with those of arthroscopy in thirteen patients with fractures of the tibial plateau. In this series, 8 (61.5%) lateral meniscal tears, 2 (15.4%) anterior cruciate ligamentous tears and 1 (7.7%) posterior cruciate ligamentous tears were seen at arthroscopy. The sensitivity for lateral meniscal tears was significantly less than for other tears. 75% of lateral meniscal tears were peripheral tears. Peripheral tears of the lateral meniscus are especially difficult to detect on MR imaging.
In conclusion, special attention should be given to peripheral tears of the lateral meniscus in fractures of the tibial plateau. Even if MR imaging do not show lateral meniscal tears, arthroscopy is recommended.