The femur is the largest and strongest bone with a very good blood supply. Large forces are required to result in a fracture. However once a fracture does occur, there can be significant displacement due to the strong musculature surrounding it and loss of blood. As a result of this, the patients are prone to neurovascular and circulatory compromise, which can lead to significant mortality and morbidity. In an open fracture, there is the added potential for infection.

We have conducted a case review of military patients with femoral fractures sustained in hostile zones admitted to RCDM for definitive treatment.

Retrospective analysis of military patients with femoral fractures admitted to RCDM. Factors to be considered include mechanism of injury, type of fracture (Gustillo Anderson and AO classification), pre- and post-transfer operative treatment, complications, microbiology, length of hospital stay, and discharge status. The presentation will include case discussion of interesting patients.

Correspondence should be addressed to Major M Butler RAMC, Princess Elizabeth Orthopaedic Centre, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, Devon.