Distal femoral fractures fixed by distal femoral locking compression plate: Functional outcomes and complications

Background: Fractures of distal femur are complex type of injuries that are difficult to manage and produce long-term disability if not treated appropriately. Anatomical reduction of articular fracture fragments, restoration of limb length, and early mobilization exercises are key factors for optimal outcomes of involved limb after surgical treatment. Distal femoral locking compression plate (DFLCP) is a relatively newly designed implant in which screws are locked into the plate to create fixed angle construct. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective analytical study of 40 patients with distal femoral fractures fixed by DFLCP. Demographic profiles, time to unite the fractures, functional outcomes as well as complications related to this surgery were noted. Results: Time to unite the fracture was 19.32 ± 5.48 weeks (range 14–32 weeks). There were one case of nonunion, one case of malunion (varus union <10°), four case of delayed union, two cases of superficial infection, one case of deep infections, one case of implant failure, and two cases of extensor lag of more than 15°. Based on Neer's scores, there were 30% excellent, 45% satisfactory, 20% unsatisfactory, and 5% failure rates. Conclusion: Distal femoral locking plate is the treatment of choice in the management of comminuted distal femoral fractures both in Type A and Type C varieties. It not only maintains the biological environment of bone but also prevents metaphyseal collapse and provides the stable construct for fracture union with good functional outcomes.