Quantitative morphology of the subchondral plate of the tibial plateau

The object of the present investigation was to measure the
thickness distribution of the subchondral plate of the tibial
plateau. The data were obtained by computerised image analysis of
serial sections. The measured values revealed a marked difference
in the thickness between the various regions of the joint surface.
Thinner zones (100-300 microns) are found in the peripheral region
near the margin of the tibial plateau. Thickness maxima (up to 1500
microns and more) are to be seen at the centres of the joint
surfaces. The relationship between the thickness distribution of
the subchondral plate and information about the stress distribution
of this particular joint surface support the conclusion that the
morphology of the subchondral plate of the tibial plateau is
determined by the function of the joint.