"Floating knee," an Uncommon Injury: Analysis of 12 Cases.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Management

Background:

• Floating knee injuries are severe, high-energy trauma often linked to life-threatening multi-organ injuries.
• These complex injuries necessitate a careful approach, prioritizing associated systemic injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the outcomes of floating knee injuries managed at a single institute between 2003 and 2015.
• To identify factors influencing functional results and complications.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 12 patients with floating knee injuries.
• Data collected on injury mechanisms, associated injuries, treatments, and complications.
• Functional outcomes assessed using modified Karlstrom and Olerud criteria.

Main Results:

• All injuries resulted from motor vehicle accidents.
• Mean follow-up was 4 years; mean patient age was 34.75 years.
• Complications included knee stiffness, delayed union, and infection; functional results were 3 excellent, 5 good, 3 fair, and 1 poor.

Conclusions:

• Floating knee injuries are severe and frequently associated with multi-organ trauma.
• Early detection and management of associated injuries, fracture fixation, and rehabilitation are crucial.
• Complications such as delayed union, stiffness, and infection are common.