Tibial eminence fracture in an adult: a possibility with rotational injuries.

Abstract

Twisting the knee may cause tibial eminence fractures in skeletally immature children; however, the injury is far less common in adults. A lateral radiograph usually shows the fracture, but further imaging studies are needed to determine the extent of displacement and concomitant soft-tissue damage. Minimally displaced fractures can be managed conservatively with immobilization and physical therapy, but severe displacements will require surgical fixation to preserve the anterior cruciate ligament. Physicians should include tibial eminence fracture in the differential diagnosis of adults who sustain a twisting injury, particularly if the patient may have osteoporosis or bone weakness.