Treatment of Distal Femur Fracture with Minimally Invasive Locking Compression Plate Osteosynthesis

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To analyze the result of distal femur fracture treatment with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) using a locking compression plate (LCP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From December 2004 to April 2010, 33 patients with distal femur fractures were treated by MIPO with a locking compression plate. The reduction state and bone union time was checked radiologically. The clinical outcome was evaluated by the Schatzker and Lambert criteria. RESULTS: The mean bone union time was 16.3 weeks (10~22 weeks). There were 3 nonunions, 2 broken plates, 1 superficial infection, 7degrees of valgus angulation in 1 case, and 1.5 cm limb shortening in 1 case. Except for the 3 nonunion cases, according to the Schatzker and Lambert criteria, results were graded as excellent in 11 cases, good in 14 cases, and moderate in 5 cases. CONCLUSION: The treatment of distal femoral fracture by MIPO with a locking compression plate resulted in good functional and radiological outcomes, but it has problems, such as broken plates and nonunion. Accurate surgical technique and appropriate treatment will be needed according to fracture type.