Functional and Radiological Outcomes after Locking Plate Fixation of AO Type 33C Distal Femur Fractures.

Abstract

Introduction: Treatment of supracondylar and intercondylar fractures of the distal femur has historically been difficult. These fractures are often unstable and comminuted and tend to occur in the elderly or in patients with multiple injuries.

Objective: The purpose of the study is to assess the functional and radiological outcome of locking plate fixation in AO type 33C distal femur fractures.

Materials and methods: A total of 49 patients with distal femoral fractures were operated by open reduction with internal fixation with a distal femur-locking compression plate (LCP) through the standard swashbuckler approach. The functional and radiological outcomes were assessed using the Neers scoring system.

Results: Out of 49 patients, Muller type C2 was the most common fracture with 36 out of 49 (73.5%). Union was found in 47 patients with two patients presenting with non-union. The average union time of the fracture was 12-20 weeks with the mean time of union being 16.2 weeks. All patients were successfully given a walking aid in the 20th week. The average knee score was 79.71 using the Neers scoring system.

Conclusion: Fractures of the distal femur are more common in high-velocity injuries and occur in middle-aged males and old age women. Most fractures were comminuted. LCP appears to be technically an ideal implant for comminuted distal femoral fractures with proper physiotherapy producing excellent results. Knee stiffness was the most common complication.