Step-by-step reduction utilizing a one-third tubular plate in surgery for distal femur fracture with severe metaphyseal comminution: A case report

Abstract

Introduction

Surgery for distal femur fractures with metaphyseal comminution remains challenging due to the multiplanar displacement, including the coronal and sagittal alignment, rotation, and length.

Case presentation

A 42-year-old male fell from a height and sustained a distal femur fracture with severe metaphyseal comminution. In surgery, a supplemental one-third tubular plate was placed medially for provisional fixation, enabling a sequential reduction for length, rotation, sagittal alignment, and coronal alignment. The fracture was finally stabilized with a lateral locking plate. The reduction parameters achieved and the functional outcome were satisfactory.

Conclusion

The one-third tubular plate simplified the reduction process by decomposing the multiplanar reduction into three dimensions and enabling a step-by-step approach.