Refracture of the Femur after Plate Removal

Hwang, Sung Kwan; Rah, Jung Ho; Park, Hee Jeon; Yoon, Yeo Seung; Han, Jae Beom

Abstract

Internal fixation with dynamic compression plate is an accepted method of treating diaphyseal fractures of the adult femur. Good results have been reported using the principles laid down by the AO group(Muller et al 1979). Refracture after secure union of a broken femur has been achieved is rare, but it is most devastating complication. There were 5 refractures out of 64 removals after fractures of the femur at the department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju college of Medicine between January, 1988 and June, 1994. After clinical and roentgenographical analysis, following results were obtained. 1. The causes of the refracture were trivial injuries or slip down injury. 2. Among 5 cases, the average time from insertion to removal was 19.2 months, with a ranged from 16 to 28 months. 3. The internal from removal of implant to refracture was 5.6 wks, with a range from 3 to 9 weeks. 4. The incidence of refracture in out hospital(7.8%) was somewhat higher than reported incidence by others. 5. The femur plates should not be removed prior to 2 years postoperatively and its removal should be postponed, if possible. 6. It is reasonable to postpone its removal until bone strength is adequate for full activity.