Abstract
Aims: Treatment of fractures of the distal femur have changed in recent years toward minimally invasive techniques in order to avoid extensive bone exposition that could interfere with union processes, complicate articular reconstruction and increase infection rate. We have used the LISS plate in order to investigate clinical and surgical advantages and complications in simple articular and complex extraarticular fractures of segment 33. Methods: From March 2000 trough February 2002 we have treated 6 patients with 33 A fracture, and 4 patients with 33 C fractures. A bilateral synthesis was undertaken. 1 patient had a Gustillo 3 while 1 a Gustillo 2 lesion associated to the fracture. 2 patients sustained a periprosthetic fracture in THA, while a patient a fracture in proximal femoral nailing. The patient with Gustillo 3 lesion sustained plastic surgery. The minimal follow up was 7 months. Results: The mean time of plating was 52 minutes, 2 patients required blood transfusion. No infections were encountered. All fractures united; the mean time of union was 86 days. At 6 months, segmental range of motion varied from 0 to 6 degrees in extension and from 82 to 123 degrees in ßexion. Conclusion: The LISS plate represents an excellent mean of synthesis combining the philosophy of internal þxation with angular stability to minimal invasiveness. Furthermore it allows to manage the problems of periprosthetic fractures avoiding prosthetic replacement.
Theses abstracts were prepared by Professor Dr. Frantz Langlais. Correspondence should be addressed to him at EFORT Central Office, Freihofstrasse 22, CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland.
