Treatment of Femoral Traumatic Fractures with a Custom Bridge Combined Fixation System

Abstract

Background: With the development of transportation in modern China, the incidence of traumatic fracture and the global degree of fracture complexity are increasing. This study explored the use and curative effect of a novel custom-manufactured bridge combined fixation system for traumatic fractures of the femur. The bridge combined fixation system can be tailored to the specific patient's requirements by bending the rods and sliding the attachment modules. Methods: From May 2013 to August 2017, 14 patients with traumatic femur fractures were managed with the bridge combined fixation system. The operation was conducted according to the routine incision approach of femur fracture. The patients were given early postoperative functional rehabilitation exercise. The curative effect was evaluated according to clinical manifestations, postoperative imaging, and a self-developed standard for bone healing. Results: All patients were followed for 12–24 (median: 12.5) months. Fracture healing was assessed based on clinical symptoms and postoperative X-ray. After 3 months, complete weight-bearing on the affected leg was painless. X-ray showed that the fracture line had disappeared by 6–9 months postoperatively and showed bone healing. According to the self-developed standard for bone healing, 13/14 (92.8%) patients achieved excellent/good clinical outcomes. Bone union was achieved in all patients within 2 years. Conclusion: The custommanufactured bridge combined fixation system is simple and can effectively achieve tailored reduction of the fracture. The fixation was stable, with few complications after surgery and with good treatment effect for traumatic fractures.