[Distal femoral fracture--technical possibilities]

The fractures of the distal femur are classified as extra-articular fractures (type A), partial articular fractures (type B), and complete articular fractures (type C). The aims of operative treatment are anatomical reconstruction of the articular surfaces, restoration of rotational and axial alignment, stable fixation of the condyles to the shaft of the femur and early functional aftercare. Techniques and implants for treating intra-articular fractures lies in the reduction of the joint fragments and fixation with lag screws. For the treatment of the extra-articular fractures different approaches, techniques and implants have proven to be reliable and effective: direct-indirect reduction, open-minimal invasive approaches, open-slipped techniques. Implants: condylar plate, dynamic condylar screw (DCS), condylar buttress plate, anterograde nailing, retrograde nailing, internal fixators (Low Invasive Stabilisation System--LISS) and external fixation.