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Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology 1/2018

01-01-2018 | Original Article • LOWER LIMB - FRACTURES

Double plating of intra-articular multifragmentary C3-type distal femoral fractures through the anterior approach

Authors: Mohamed A. Imam, Ahmed Torieh, Ahmed Matthana

Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology | Issue 1/2018

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Abstract

Introduction

In this prospective case series, we report a mean of 12-month follow-up of the utilization of a dual plating of distal femoral fractures. Our technique included a lateral distal femoral locked plate with a low-contact-locked medial plate and bone graft through an extended medial parapatellar anterior approach for the fixation of C3-type distal femoral fractures.

Patients and methods

Sixteen patients (11 males and 5 females) presented with supracondylar femoral fracture type C3, according to Müller long-bone classification system and its revision OA/OTA classification. These were treated using dual plating through extended anterior approach and bone grafting. Our outcomes included clinical and radiological outcomes. Secondary outcomes included postoperative complications.

Results

The mean time of complete radiological union in the studied population was 6.0 ± 3.5 months with a range of 3–14 months. We have not observed postoperative varus or valgus deformity in our cohort. The majority (68.75%) of the studied patients showed significant improvement in range of motion (90°–120°) during follow-up. Eleven out of sixteen patients (68.75%) had well-to-excellent functional outcome. Poor outcome was reported in only two patients (12.50%).

Conclusions

Dual plating fixation using anterior approach for type C3 distal femoral fractures is an efficient method of management. It has several advantages such as precise exposure, easy manipulation, anatomical reduction and stable fixation. However, operative indications and instructions should be strictly followed. The surgical technique must be rigorous, and the biomechanical qualities of these implants must be understood to prevent the development of major complications.
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Metadata
Title
Double plating of intra-articular multifragmentary C3-type distal femoral fractures through the anterior approach
Authors
Mohamed A. Imam
Ahmed Torieh
Ahmed Matthana
Publication date
01-01-2018
Publisher
Springer Paris
Published in
European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology / Issue 1/2018
Print ISSN: 1633-8065
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1068
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-017-2014-9

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