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Optimizing management strategies for malunion and nonunion of Hoffa fractures: a detailed case series with a proposed
Robinson E Pires1,2, Guido S Carabelli3, Jorge Barla3
1Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil. robinsonestevespires@gmail.com.
Purpose:
This study aims to refine management strategies for malunion and nonunion of Hoffa fractures, as these rare complications present significant clinical challenges.
Methods:
We conducted a case series involving seven patients with Hoffa fracture complications, including four cases of malunion and three cases of nonunion. Each patient underwent individualized surgical treatment, depending on the nature of their complication. Treatment strategies varied from intra-articular osteotomies for malunions to revision surgery or total knee arthroplasty for nonunions. Postoperative outcomes were monitored, with follow-up ranging from 1 to 15 years (mean follow-up time was 6.7 years).
Results:
In all malunion cases, intra-articular osteotomies restored the articular surface, leading to improved function and bone healing. In nonunion cases, two patients with non-reconstructible nonunions underwent total knee arthroplasty, while one patient achieved union with surgical revision. Overall, six out of seven patients showed significant functional improvements post-surgery, although some experienced mild residual pain or deformities.
Conclusion:
The management of malunion and nonunion in Hoffa fractures remains challenging, but the individualized strategy based on fracture type and patient-specific factors leads to favourable outcomes. The proposed treatment algorithm provides a useful framework for orthopaedic trauma surgeons in addressing these complications, with emphasis on stable fixation, early intervention, and personalized surgical planning.
