Surgical stabilization of supracondylar fracture femur with locking compression plate: A Study on functional outcome

Abstract

Fractures of the distal end of femur especially comminuted, intra- articular extension remain some of the most challenging fractures facing orthopaedic surgeons. The present study is justified for the fact that it will be one of the solutions for the age-old complications associated with the treatment of supracondylar fractures with traditional fixed angle plates and nails of, postoperative loss of reduction (varus collapse) and malalignment due to the inherent lack of rigidity and in some cases, eventual implant failure. After the proper preoperative evaluation fitness for surgery was obtained. The limb to be operated was shaved and prepared a day before scheduled surgery. Antibiotic was injected intravenously at least 10 minutes before surgery. Although various approaches like direct lateral-standard approach, minimally invasive lateral approach, medial approach and antero-lateral approach are described however in the current study direct lateral approach was used which is the standard one generally followed by the various previous studies. Out of 30 fractures, 19 fractures accounting for 63.3% were open fractures. Rest of the fractures were closed. In this study majority of the cases 19 (63.3%) were due to road traffic accidents seen in below 50 years of age. Long term results were rated using Neer’s rating system. Neer’s score was assigned for each patient after 24 to 36 weeks. Using this scale 16 cases (53.3%) shown excellent, 11 cases (36.7%) good and 3 cases (10%) poor result. Out of three varus malalignments two were of type C3 fracture and one type C2. Factors contributing to malalignment were severe comminution and improper reduction.