Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025

Imaging of the Microstructural Failure Mechanism in the Human Hip
Published on: September 29, 2023
Unusual Morphology of a Distal Femur Fracture
Abdullah A Aldhibaib1, Faisal A Alqifari2, Abdulaziz M Almuhanna1
1Orthopedics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, SAU.
Abstract:
Fractures of the distal femur are rare but serious injuries that often follow a distinct pattern, occurring more frequently in both younger and older populations. In younger individuals, these fractures usually result from high-energy trauma, while in the elderly, they are often caused by domestic accidents. A 65-year-old female with a history of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, and dyslipidemia fell on the stairs, impacting her right knee. She experienced intense pain and was unable to walk. Examination showed a swollen right knee without abrasions, tenderness, or neurovascular compromise. X-rays revealed a displaced fracture of the medial femoral condyle, with a fracture line extending to the diaphysis, and a non-displaced lateral femoral condyle fracture. The case underscores a significant distal femur fracture in an elderly patient following a low-energy impact. Early diagnosis and surgical stabilization are vital for good outcomes in femoral condylar fractures. Goals include anatomical reduction and restoring limb alignment while preserving vascularity. The choice of surgical methods depends on fracture configuration and surgeon preference. Surgery is the gold standard for displaced fractures.
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
Bones of the Lower Limb: Tibia and Fibula
Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the...
Classification of Bones
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus
Bones of the Upper Limb: Ulna

