Experience of Dual Plating in Distal Femur Fractures

Aim of the Study: Considering above pitfalls of single lateral plating we conducted a study to assess the role of dual plating.

Study Design: The study conducted is prospective in nature.

Place of Study: Department of Orthopedics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital (JNMCH), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh.

Methodology: We conducted a prospective study from November 2018 to November 2020 on 32 patients. We included the complex extra and intraarticular fractures (A3, C2 and C3 according to the OTA classification) in our study. Standard Antero-Posterior and lateral radiographs of injured distal femur and knee joint were used. We used anterior midline in 19 and dual incision approach in 13 patients. We followed the patients clinically and radiologically for union and knee function by knee society score.

Results: Mean age of patients was 46 years (20-65 years). 21 were male and 11 were females. Mean follow up of our patient was 18 months (6-29 months). Fracture union was achieved in 29 out of 32 patients. Average time to achieve union was 9 months (6-14 months). Most of the patient’s range of Motion (ROM) was 90°-135°. 24 patients obtained good to excellent results. None of them developed varus or valgus deformity.

Conclusion: Considering these covenant results we propose that dual plating is the most appropriate modus operandi for the treatment of the distal femur fractures.