Non-arthritic tibial plateaus were obtained from fifteen cadavera and
five above-the-knee amputation specimens. After radiographs had been made,
each sample was macerated and the topography of the subchondral plate was
displayed by scanning electron microscopy. The surface features included
small peripheral and submeniscal osteophytes, indentations, and holes
penetrating the plate. The pattern of distribution of holes per square
centimeter was different for the subchondral plate of the medial plateau
than it was for that of the lateral plateau. More holes were present in the
submeniscal area of the medial tibial plateau; the lateral tibial plateau
showed a greater concentration of holes in its central area. By light
microscopy, many holes were seen to be blood vessels that were lined by
endothelium and contained erythrocytes.