Abstract

Objective: To assess the functional outcome of distal femur locking plate in patients with fracture of distal femur, in terms of rate of union and range of knee motion
Methodology: This study was conducted at Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan from May 7, 2015 to May 3, 2017 with fracture classification AO type A-1, 2, 3 and C-1, 2, C3. Those with AO type B-1, 2, 3 were excluded. Functional outcome was measured in terms of union of fracture and range of motion of knee joint.
Results: There were 40 patients with mean age of 35.01±8.78 years (range 22-72). Twenty six (65%) were male and 14 (35%) were female. Road traffic accident was responsible for 28(70%) fractures while in 12(30%) patients fractures were caused by fall from height. Right limb was affected in 21(52.5%) patients while 19(47.5%) patients had affected left limb. Using Schatzker and Lambert’s criteria, satisfactory functional outcome was observed in 85% cases.
Conclusion: Careful open reduction and stable internal fixation of distal femur fractures with distal femur locking plate showed satisfactory functional and radiologic results in 85% cases with excellent union and satisfactory range of motion.

Key words: Comminuted intraarticular, extraarticular, distal femur fracture, distal femur locking plate (DFLP).