Integrated Nail and Plate Fixation with Allograft in the Management of Osteoporotic Intra-articular Distal Femur Fracture - A Case Report

J Orthop Case Rep. 2024 Jul;14(7):93-97. doi: 10.13107/jocr.2024.v14.i07.4588.

Abstract

Introduction: Securing stable internal fixation for fractures in osteoporotic intra-articular distal femur proves to be a demanding task due to thin cortices, a wide medullary canal, diminished bone stock, and fracture comminution. No singular therapeutic approach has successfully tackled all facets of this injury. Consequently, we now introduce a pioneering fixation method in our report, aiming to offer a holistic solution to the intricate challenges associated with this scenario.

Case report: A 60-year-old female presented with an intra-articular distal femur fracture, and underwent a combination fixation of distal femur plate and intramedullary interlocking nailing. The patient was rehabilitated with active knee range of motion on post-operative day 7 and has now attained full knee range of motion.

Conclusion: The utilization of anatomical plates with locking mechanisms, in tandem with intramedullary interlocking nailing, holds promise for the secure stabilization and fixation of osteoporotic distal femur fractures, potentially leading to an expedited recovery process.

Keywords: Distal femur fracture; distal femur plating; intra-articular fracture; intramedullary nailing.

Publication types

  • Case Reports