A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON THE OUTCOMES FOLLOWING LCP CONDYLAR PLATE FIXATION IN AO TYPE C DISTAL FEMORAL FRACTURES

Fractures of the distal third of the femur especially AO type C are a treatment challenge despite new fixation options. Fixed angle locking plates have become the most commonly used device for this indication replacing intramedullary nails, blade plates and condylar screws. In this study we analyze the functional outcome of open reduction and rigid internal fixation using LCP condylar plate in AO type C distal femoral fractures. METHODOLOGY: We studied the results of LCP Condylar plate fixation in 30 patients with AO type C distal femoral fractures over a period of 22 months at our institution. Functional outcome is measured with Neer's criteria. RESULTS: Out of 30 patients, 11 patients (36.7%) achieved excellent and 11 patients (36.7%) achieved satisfactory outcome. 3 patients (10%) achieved unsatisfactory and 5 patients (16.6%) achieved poor outcome. We found that, open fractures, articular comminution, infection, lack of rigid internal fixation and malalignment are the major culprits for a poor functional outcome. CONCLUSION: The LCP condylar plate is an acceptable surgical option for treatment of AO type C distal femoral fractures by achieving early mobility due to primary stability of the construct.