Publication:

Management of distal femur fractures with locking compression plate: a prospective study

Background Distal femur fractures need to be treated operatively to achieve optimal outcomes. Different types of internal fixation devices have been used but, the number of revisions for non-union, loss of reduction and implant failure has been high.

Methods This prospective study reviewed 20 cases of distal femoral fractures surgically managed with distal femoral locking compression plate between December 2013 and December 2015 at Mediciti Institute of medical sciences, Ghanpur, Medchal, tertiary care referral and trauma centre. Fractures were categorized according to OTA classification by Muller.

Results Highest number of patients was in their 3rd decade (25%) 18 out of 20 patients had closed injury. Type A2 Muller’s fracture was the most common fracture type 7 out of 20 patients (35%).The mean follow up period in this study was 8 months. The average range of knee flexion achieved was about 109°. The mean score 81.75 points were rated using Neer’s functional score (Max 100).

Conclusions The locking compression plate is the treatment of choice in the management of comminuted distal femoral fractures especially Type A fractures where we have found higher Neer scores. It may not completely solve the age-old problems associated with any fracture like non-union and malunion, but is valuable in the management of these fractures.