Dynamic Locked Plating of Distal Femur Fractures

Abstract

Background: Distal femur fractures account for less than 1% of all fractures and 3%–6% of all femur fractures. Epidemiological studies indicate 2 primary distributions of patients: elderly individuals with low energy mechanisms such as a fall from standing, and younger patients with high-energy mechanisms such as motor vehicle accidents. Fixation of the distal femur fracture with lateral locked plate had a nonunion rate between 0 to 32%. The concept of “Dynamic” Locked Plates, has been proposed to decrease construct stiffness & improve callus formation. Objective: A systematic review and meta-analysis of literature to assess the outcomes of dynamic locked plate of distal femora fractures. Data Sources: Medline databases (PubMed, Medscape, ScienceDirect. EMF-Portal) and all materials available in the Internet till 2018. Data Extraction: If the studies did not fulfill the inclusion criteria, they were excluded. Study quality assessment included whether ethical approval was gained, eligibility criteria specified, appropriate controls, and adequate information and defined assessment measures. Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis showed different method of distal femur locked plate dynamyzation. DLP of distal femur increased interfragmentery micro motion, decrease construct stiffness and improve healing & union rate of distal femur fractures. Finally it should be noticed that the orthopedic surgeon should be qualified to utilize which of these techniques & the choice depends on the preoperative planning & method of fixation available which leads to fracture union on time without complications.