In the Schatzker classification of tibial plateau fractures, a Type IV fracture involves:

• A Medial condyle fracture (split or depression) ✓
• B Pure lateral condyle split
• C Lateral condyle split with depression
• D Bicondylar fracture without diaphyseal extension

Explanation

Schatzker classification: Type I — lateral split; Type II — lateral split-depression; Type III — lateral pure depression; Type IV — medial plateau fracture (high energy, associated with peroneal nerve and popliteal artery injury); Type V — bicondylar fracture; Type VI — plateau fracture with metaphyseal-diaphyseal dissociation. Type IV is medically important because medial plateau fractures imply much greater force (medial condyle is stronger) and carry a high rate of vascular and ligamentous injuries. Urgent vascular assessment is mandatory.

Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.