Less Invasive Stabilization System for treatment of distal femur fractures

The low profile of Less Invasive Stabilization System (LISS) plates allows them to be inserted between muscle and diaphysis with less bone exposure than that obtained with conventional plating techniques. In the unique LISS mechanism, unicortical screws thread into both plate and bone and allow the system to act as an internal fixator, with compressive pressure no longer bearing down on the periosteum. Results are minimal soft-tissue, periosteal, cortical, and vascular damage and no compromise in stability. This lesser degree of tissue disruption is hypothesized to accelerate bone healing, make bone grafting unnecessary, decrease infection rates, and prevent further injury by lessening overall surgical trauma. In a prospective, nonrandomized study conducted at a level I trauma center, we sought to determine the benefits of LISS plating in the treatment of distal femur fractures. Between January 1, 1998, and June 3, 2001, we treated 25 multiply injured adult patients admitted through the trauma department with 26 unstable distal femur fractures. Treatment involved minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis using LISS plating. Main outcome measures were time to union, postoperative complications, and functional impairment as measured with the SF-36v2 Health Survey. Results included no nonunions, no infections, no required bone grafting, and excellent range of motion and alignment.