Two column classification of tibial plateau fractures; description, clinical application and reliability

•In an effort to solve the pitfalls in the practically used classifications and to shed more light on this demanding issue, this study addresses the rational issue of tibial plateau fractures classification.•To date a lot of classification systems have been introduced in the literature. But we have realized that extensive nature classifications describe more details about fracture types but these are very lengthy and very difficult to remember for traumatologists. On other hand, relatively simple systems are easy but many of the fracture types are missing in these classifications. Even in Schatzer’s and AO classifications which are mostly used in the recent practice, many of the fracture types are not described.•Pitfalls in the previous classifications are described. The anatomical divisions of this classification, clinical application and inter and intra observer’s reliability is described statistically.•Conclusions of this study would be useful for clinicians to understand and classify these demanding injuries precisely.