Article

Review of Common Clinical Conditions of the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint

Publish date: December 11, 2018
By
Christian M. Curatolo, BS
Gregory Bach, MD
Christopher E. Mutty, MD
John M. Marzo, MD
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TAKE-HOME POINTS

  • Problems of the proximal tibiofibular joint (PFTJ) should be considered in the differential diagnosis when a patient presents with complaints in the lateral aspect of the knee.
  • The primary function of the PTFJ is to transmit and absorb axial loads from weight bearing on the extremity, and to dissipate torsional loads applied to the leg and ankle.
  • The most common instability pattern is anterolateral fibular displacement.
  • Most proximal tibiofibular joint instabilities can be treated with closed reduction and conservative care, but some require internal fixation or soft-tissue reconstruction.
  • Arthritic conditions of the PTFJ are treated similar to those of any diarthrodial joint, with additional option of surgical arthrodesis or resection arthroplasty.


 

References

ABSTRACT

Current literature is limited with respect to the proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) and clinical conditions relating to the PTFJ. Diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the PTFJ are not well described and are a topic of debate among many physicians. This manuscript aims to review and summarize the most recent literature that relates to traumatic dislocations, fractures, chronic instability, and osteoarthritis, with a focus on both diagnostic and treatment strategies of these conditions. We also review PTFJ anatomy, biomechanics, and the clinical presentation of some common PTFJ conditions.

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