J Korean Fract Soc.  2013 Jul;26(3):205-211. 10.12671/jkfs.2013.26.3.205.

Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis with Locking Compression Plate for Distal Femur Fracture

• Cho SW
• Ha SH
• Lee GC
• Kim WH

• KMID: 1431665
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12671/jkfs.2013.26.3.205

Abstract

PURPOSE
To analyze the clinical and radiologic results of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for distal femur fractures using a locking compression plate (LCP) and to evaluate its usefulness.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
From May 2006 to April 2011, 23 patients (24 cases) with distal femur fracture were treated by MIPO with a LCP and followed-up for at least 12 months. Mean age was 61.6 years (35-80 years). Union time and post-operative alignment were measured on radiograph, and clinical function was evaluated by range of motion (ROM), Knee Society Score and complications.
RESULTS
In 22 patients (23 cases) except for 1 case, bony union was obtained after an average of 18 weeks (12-26 weeks). The mean ROM was 124 degrees (80-135 degrees). According to the Knee Society Score, there were 12 excellent, 8 good, 1 fair and 2 poor results and the mean score was 87.5 (60-98). Postoperative complications were nonunion in 1 case, ankylosis in 1 case, malunion in 2 cases and superficial wound infection in 2 cases.
CONCLUSION
The treatment of distal femoral fracture with MIPO using a LCP was considered a useful method which can result in satisfactory clinical and radiologic outcomes if there is accurate understanding about the surgical techniques and appropriate procedures involved.

Keyword

Distal femur fracture; Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis; Locking compression plate

MeSH Terms

Ankylosis
Femoral Fractures
Femur
Humans
Knee
Postoperative Complications
Range of Motion, Articular
Wound Infection

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Indirect reduction and temporary plate fixation with reduction forceps and K-wires.

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  Fig. 2 (A, B) The initial radiograph of 68-year-old female shows comminuted metaphyseal fracture of distal femur (AO/OTA classification A3). (C, D) Radiographs show a postoperative state. (E, F) At postoperative 20 weeks, radiograph shows maintenance of reduction and bony union. (G, H) At postoperative 20 weeks, range of motion of knee is good.

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  Fig. 3 (A, B) The initial radiograph of 69-year-old female shows simple spiral metaphyseal fracture of distal femur (AO/OTA classification A1). (C, D) Post operative radiographs shows 7° valgus alignment: the epiphyseal screws are not parallel to the joint line. (E, F) At postoperative 24 weeks, radiograph shows maintenance of reduction and bony union.

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