FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES OF DUAL PLATING IN DISTAL FEMUR FRACTURES: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY FROM A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN INDIA

Abstract

Background: Distal femur fractures constitute a challenging group of injuries due to their intra-articular involvement and biomechanical complexity. Single lateral plating may be insufficient in fractures with medial comminution, leading to mechanical failure [6]. Dual plating has been proposed to enhance stability; however, evidence regarding its functional outcomes remains limited. Purpose: To evaluate functional outcomes of dual plating in distal femur fractures using Kolmert’s scoring system. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 80 patients with distal femur fractures (AO/OTA type’s 33A–C) treated with dual plating at a tertiary care centre. Functional outcomes were assessed using Kolmert’s score at 6 months. Radiological union and complications were also evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The mean age was 42 years, with male predominance (60%). Type C fractures were most common. Good to excellent functional outcomes were observed in 70% of patients. Radiological union was achieved in 95% of cases. Complications occurred in 28.75% of patients. A significant association was found between fracture type and functional outcome (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Dual plating provides stable fixation with satisfactory functional outcomes, particularly in complex distal femur fractures. Level of Evidence: Level II