“FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF RETROGRADE NAILING IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SUPRACONDYLAR AND DISTAL FEMORAL FRACTURE”

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Fractures of the Distal femur are complex injuries that pose a challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. It constitutes about 6 % of all femoral fractures. It usually occurs during high energy trauma in younger patients and frequently are associated with concomitant injuries. In contrast, elderly patients with severe osteopenia might sustain solitary distal femoral fractures from minor trauma such as a simple fall. Proper diagnosis and treatment leads to early mobilization and rehabilitation of patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS :This prospective study was conducted in Department of Orthopedics at Dr. S. N. Medical College and Associated group of Hospital, Jodhpur ,Rajasthan ,India on 30 patients who underwent the surgery with retrograde intramedullary interlocking nail in the management of extra-articular supracondylar femoral fracture from August 2019 to November 2020. On follow up axial alignment was assessed and functional analysis was quantied using NEERS RATING SYSTEM, Radiographs was analyzed for correction, maintenance of position or loss of reduction. function around knee was accessed according to Schatzker and Lambert Criteria, measures the exion/extension , varus/valgus deformity , joint congruency and pain in operated patients. RESULTS: In our study 30 patients with supracondylar & distal femoral fractures based on AO Classication on MULLER ET AL underwent retrograde supracondylar nail, long term nal result were rated using NEER'S RATING SCORE , which gives point for pain, function, working, joint movement ,gross and radiological appearance. NEER'S RATING SCORE assigned for each patient after 24 weeks of follow up. After accessing this score out of total 30 patients, 10 have excellent score, 10 have good score, 8 have fair score and next 2 have poor score. Function around knee was accessed according to Schatzker and Lambert Criteria, measures the exion/extension , varus/valgus deformity , joint congruency and pain in operated patients,out of 30 patients 9 patients have an excellent result , 8 have good ,12 have fair and only 1 patient have poor result CONCLUSION:The retrograde intramedullary locked nail provides the surgeon with a different option in treatment of specic supracondylar fracture patterns. It offers a practical advantages of simple and efcient technique for patients with polytrauma, oating knee injuries and in elderly. this technique is very useful in distal femur fracture where antegrade nailing does not provide stability and also where plate xation is not suitable due to soft tissue condition.