Minneapolis Tibial Plateau Fracture Attorney
Terry, Slane & Ruohonen has extensive experience with tibial plateau fracture lawsuits. Our partners are thorough, aggressive, and persuasive litigators who get the job done. We will deal with the insurance company, handle all of the paperwork, and file your claim. Call 612-362-0000 or contact us.
Tibial Plateau Fracture
The tibial plateau is critical to the body’s ability to bear weight. This type of leg break is caused by force being directed from the femoral condyles onto the medial and lateral sections of the tibial plateau. These fractures affect the alignment of the knee, stability, and range of motion. A high percentage of tibial plateau fractures occur in:
- car accidents
- truck accidents
- motorcycle accidents
- pedestrian accidents (being hit by a motor vehicle)
Types of Tibial Plateau Fractures
The types of tibial plateau fractures are:
1. Wedge Fracture – high energy fracture frequently occurring in younger patients, the wedge is not depressed (below the normal level)
2. Split Compression – very common in those suffering from osteoporosis, the wedge is displaced and may be depressed
3. Local Compression Fracture of the Lateral Plateau – depression in the bone surface
4. Medial Plateau Fracture – high velocity fracture causing the bone to chip and fragment, in some of these cases reconstruction is impossible
5. Bicondylar Fracture – wedge fractures of medial and lateral plateau, in 50% of these cases there is peripheral meniscal detachment
6. Complex Bicondylar Fracture – high intensity trauma with combination of forces, tibial plateau break with separation from the tibia, 33% are open fractures and nearly 90% include major soft tissue damage (muscles, ligaments, and tendons)
Tibial Plateau Fracture Complications
The worst complications occur with the complex bicondylar fractures. If soft tissue damage is involved, it can be extensive — damaging the menisci, peroneal nerve, injuring ligaments, or the popliteal artery. Additional complications can include loss of range of motion, osteoarthritis, bone fragments, and edema.
Tibial Plateau Fracture Treatment
Most tibial plateau fracture cases require the patient to refrain from putting weight on the leg for 6-12 weeks. Not all tibial plateau fractures require surgery. Some fractures can be treated non-operatively. During the 6-12 weeks of immobility, you will need to do therapy. This will help to maintain muscle strength and increase ROM.
Minneapolis Tibial Plateau Fracture Attorney
Our Minneapolis Personal Injury Attorneys have extensive experience with tibial plateau fracture lawsuits and a reputation for large settlements, including a $1.7 million settlement for multiple leg and ankle fractures. Call 612-362-0000 or submit our contact form.
