Devices, methods and techniques are disclosed that improve a surgeons ability to assess and optimize the preparation of anatomical support structures in the implantation of knee joint implant components. Described herein are tibial trial apparatuses that provide for preparing a keel cavity in the tibial bone and conduct balancing, rotation, alignment, and/or laxity assessment for implantation of a knee prosthesis. In some embodiments, the tibial trial apparatuses provide for a modular system and can be used in a procedure for cutting, drilling, and keel punching the tibial bone to receive a tibial tray implant.
