Functional outcome of distal femoral fractures treated with DF-LCP [Distal femur locking compression plate]

Author(s): Dr. Ram Avatar Saini, Dr. Nihar Shah and Dr. Divyansh Sharma

Abstract: Introduction: Management of distal femoral fractures is a therapeutic challenge to the orthopaedic and due to its extensive soft tissue injuries, bone loss, comminution, articular extension, instability and usually treated surgically. There is no single implant that can be used for all distal femoral fractures. The introduction of DF-LCP is a welcome change that has brought a drastic change in management of these fractures. Aim: To evaluate the functional outcome of Distal femoral fractures treated with DF-LCP Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out at orthopaedics department of a tertiary care teaching hospital of Southern Rajasthan from June 2013 to December 2015. A total 34 patients of AO Type A and Type C distal femur fractures were included in the study. The method used for fixation was closed or open reduction and internal fixation with DF-LCP. All the patients were followed up for a period of one year and functional outcome was assessed according to Neer’s score system. Results: On evaluation according to Neer’s criteria mean score were 87 with a range of 62-97. Out of 34 patients 21(62%) had excellent, 11(32%) satisfactory and 2(6%) unsatisfactory result. Conclusion: We conclude that DF-LCP is a safe and reliable implant for distal femoral fractures AO Type A and Type C. However careful understanding of basic principles and identification of appropriate fracture pattern for use of DF-LCP are essential to avoid complications and to produce excellent result.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22271/ortho.2018.v4.i1g.63