Definition
The medial tibial condyle (plateau) is the major weightbearing side of the knee. It is a concave platform of bone covered with cartilage that allows for a smooth gliding surface of the medial condyle of the femur.
Its unique structural features include its ability to withstand the high forces that are transmitted through it from the femur and the rest of the body during ambulation, jumping and running.
It articulates with the end of the femur to form a simple hinge joint. It also is the site of attachment of the medial meniscus which gives cushioning to the knee joint and redistributes weight more evenly across the joint during weight bearing activities. Meniscotibial ligaments help anchor the meniscus in place and the meniscus prevents excessive anterior-posterior sliding on the plateau
Common diseases include degenerative changes (arthritis) and fractures. The medial tibial condyle is less commonly involved in fractures then the lateral plateau mainly due to characteristic forces transmitted through the knee in traumatic events.
Commonly used diagnostic procedures include a weight bearing (standing) view of the knee to determine the extent of cartilage loss with arthritic pains
Degenerative joint disease isolated to the medial side of the knee can be treated with a uniarthroplasty (replacement of the medial sided structures) or if more global involvement is present, a total knee arthroplasty
References
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