Tibial plateau
Planum tibiae
Definition
The tibial plateau is the flat area on the upper end of the tibia. It consists of the superior articular surfaces of the medial and lateral condyles of the tibia, along with an intermediate intercondylar region between them. The tibial tuberosity, which marks the anterior extent of the intercondylar area, is also part of the tibial plateau.
The articular surfaces are concave in the middle and directly articulate with the femoral condyles. However, their margins are covered by cartilaginous rims called menisci, which separate the articular surfaces from the femoral condyles. The menisci act as shock absorbers and provide stability to the knee joint.
The intercondylar area lies between the medial and lateral condylar articulating surfaces and is characterized by a raised intercondylar eminence in the center. This region serves as the attachment site for the ends of the menisci and cruciate ligaments.
References
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2023 IMAIOS.
Standring, S. and Gray, H. (2016). ‘Chapter 80: Pelvic girdle, gluteal region and thigh’ in Gray’s anatomy The anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. (41st ed.) New York: Elsevier, pp. 1401-1405.
