Dual Plating Through a Single Anterior Approach for Distal Femoral Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Trauma surgery
• Bone healing

Background:

• Comminuted distal femoral fractures and periprosthetic fractures pose significant treatment challenges.
• Nonunion and varus collapse are common complications associated with these injuries.
• Dual plating offers a promising solution for managing these complex fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical outcomes of dual plating osteosynthesis for distal femur fractures and nonunions.
• To assess the efficacy of using a single anterior incision for dual plating.
• To analyze healing rates and complication profiles associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 49 patients with acute distal femoral fractures, periprosthetic fractures, or distal femoral nonunions was studied.
• Patients underwent osteosynthesis using dual plating via a single anterior incision.
• Demographic data, hospitalization duration, follow-up period, union time, and complications were systematically recorded.

Main Results:

• All 49 fractures achieved union, with a mean healing time of 4.8 months.
• Mean hospitalization was 5.5 days, and mean follow-up was 13.6 months.
• Complications were infrequent, including one implant failure, one vascular injury, and two superficial infections.

Conclusions:

• Dual plating through a single anterior incision is a reliable and effective treatment for comminuted distal femoral fractures, periprosthetic fractures, and nonunions.
• This technique provides stable fixation, facilitates early bone healing, and minimizes soft tissue complications.
• The approach demonstrates a favorable outcome profile for complex distal femur reconstructions.