Supercutaneous Plating Technique: A Case Report of Locking Plate Used as an External Fixator

Abstract

Introduction: Open fracture is one of the most common and challenging healthcare problem in orthopedic practice1.Despite improvements in implant design, management of open fractures remain a challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. Locked compression plates (LCP) have advantages of angular stability from the locking-head mechanism and less irritation when compared with traditional external fixators due to their low profiles. Here is a case report of the same. Case Report: A 50-year-old lady, a municipal worker by occupation, came to casualty with alleged history of road traffic accident and injury to right thigh and knee. Plain radiograph of of right femur with knee revealed a supracondylar fracture of right femur. As a definitive treatment, patient underwent open reduction and supercutaneous plating. Skin grafting was done for the external wound over distal thigh. The External fixation plate for right distal knee was removed after 6 weeks and knee ROM of 0 to 100 degree flexion was achieved by one year. Conclusion: Open fractures can be treated by external fixation using the LCP plates, which are safe, reliable and have acceptable functional outcomes with minimal complication rates. Its advantages also include ease of performing surgery and ease of removing plate after fracture healing. Keywords: Supercutaneous plating, LCP- locking compression plate, External fixator