Functional Outcome of Distal Femur Nail Multilocking (DFN-ML) in Distal Third Femur Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Trauma Management
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Distal femur fractures (DFFs) are common, resulting from high-energy trauma or low-force events in osteoporotic bone.
• Distal femur nail multilocking (DFN-ML) is an emerging fixation technique with potential biomechanical advantages over traditional methods.
• DFN-ML utilizes an intramedullary nail with multi-directional locking screws for enhanced stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional outcomes of patients treated with DFN-ML for distal third femur fractures.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of the DFN-ML technique in managing DFFs.

Main Methods:

• A study included 31 patients with distal third femur fractures.
• Fracture classification used the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) system.
• Functional outcomes were measured using the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-surgery.

Main Results:

• The mean Lysholm score significantly improved from 22.10 at 4 weeks to 80.65 at 12 weeks.
• The majority of patients were male (71%), with road traffic accidents (58.1%) being the primary cause of injury.
• Six patients (19.4%) experienced postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

• The DFN-ML technique provides robust fixation, enabling early mobilization and high union rates for DFFs.
• DFN-ML is a viable treatment option for distal femur fractures, potentially promoting fracture healing.
• Further multicentric studies with extended follow-up are recommended to confirm these findings.