Open reduction; plate fixation

A multifragmentary SH III fracture may require a combined approach using a screw to achieve anatomical reconstruction of the joint and plating for stabilization of the epiphysis to the metaphysis.

This technique crosses the distal femoral physis and will sacrifice remaining growth and therefore is only recommended if there is minimal growth remaining or if there is severe comminution of the growth plate.

The main goals of treatment of these fractures are:

• Restore joint congruity
• Uncomplicated healing
• No secondary displacement
• Minimize injury to the growth plate

Distal femoral physeal fractures are associated with a high rate (30–50%) of growth arrest.

These fractures are often displaced and require open reduction to restore the articular surface. Reduction can be approached through a medial or lateral parapatellar incision, depending on the fracture anatomy.

A plate is usually placed laterally but a medial approach may be more suitable for articular fracture on the medial aspect of the epiphysis.

If there is instability across the growth plate, the epiphysis may be stabilized to the metaphysis with either K-wires or plate fixation in older children.

The size and type of implant are determined by the size and age of the patient as well as by the fracture pattern. The range of plate sizes in pediatric femur fractures is between 2.7 and 5.0 mm.

Pediatric anatomic condylar plates are available and adult anatomic plates may be appropriate for older patients. This is particularly relevant to patients with a closing growth plate or, in rare cases, where a stable fracture fixation requires sacrificing and bridging of the growth plate. The L-shaped tibial plateau plate fits very well on the contralateral distal femur and allows at least two screws in the distal fragment.

Place the patient supine on a radiolucent table with a C-arm.

The majority of the fractures are approached using the distal component of a direct lateral approach (or medial approach if necessary).

It may be necessary to remove interposed soft-tissue and periosteum prior to reduction of the fracture under direct vision.

Reduce and hold the epiphyseal fracture with forceps. Insert a K-wire in the epiphysis parallel to the growth plate to temporarily stabilize the fracture. Application of forceps or K-wire may require a separate stab incision.

Confirm anatomical reduction by direct visualization or image intensification.

The epiphyseal fracture may be stabilized with an additional screw, especially if a straight plate is selected. Interfragmentary compression can be achieved with a bone clamp, a partially threaded cancellous screw or a lag screw.

This screw should be placed to not interfere with the planned plate placement.

Insert a guide wire in the epiphysis parallel to and away from the growth plate.

If the K-wire for temporary fixation is in an ideal position for the screw this can be used instead.

Determine the appropriate screw length.

Choose a partially threaded screw ensuring that the thread will not cross the fracture.

Insert the screw and compress the fracture.

Confirm anatomical reduction and fixation of the articular surface with image intensification.

Remove the temporary K-wire.

Reduce the growth plate under direct vision.

Extend the incision if there is a block to reduction (eg periosteum).

Once the epiphysis is anatomically reduced on to the metaphysis, insert two K-wires through the fracture for temporary fixation.

The K-wires should be placed so they do not interfere with later plate application.

Plate contouring is often required to match the anatomy of the femur.

Interfragmentary compression of the articular fracture can be achieved with a bone clamp, a partially threaded cancellous screw or a lag screw.

Prior to screw insertion check the femoral alignment with image intensification and make sure that both ends of the plate are well aligned and have good contact with the bone.

Start with insertion of a screw on both ends of the plate and then insert further screws.

Insert one or two screws through the plate distal to the growth plate.

Insert two or three screws through the plate proximal to the fracture zone.

Check implant position and fracture reduction with image intensification.

Use clinical examination to check lower extremity alignment.

The patient should get out of bed and begin ambulation with crutches on the first postoperative day.

In most cases the postoperative protocol will be touch-weight bearing for the first 4 weeks.

Routine pain medication is prescribed for 3–5 days postoperatively.

The patient should be examined frequently to exclude neurovascular compromise, particularly following displaced, high-energy fractures, when deterioration may be delayed.

Compartment syndrome, although rare, should be considered in the presence of severe swelling, increasing pain, and changes to neurovascular signs.

Discharge from hospital follows local practice and is usually possible after 1–3 days.

The patient should continue ambulation with crutches.

After ORIF, fractures are sufficiently stable for the knee to be immobilized in a removable brace and range-of-motion exercises can begin early in the postoperative phase.

For the more unstable or comminuted fractures, range-of-motion exercises will begin at a slower rate.

Clinical and radiological follow-up is usually undertaken 2 weeks postoperatively.

Clinical assessment of leg length and alignment is recommended yearly until skeletal maturity.

Clinical assessment of leg length uses a tape measure from the ASIS to the medial malleolus.

If there is any concern about leg length discrepancy or malalignment, long leg x-rays are recommended.

Leg length is measured from the femoral head to the ankle joint.

If the expected leg length discrepancy if greater then 2 cm additional surgery to correct the leg length may be necessary.

If symptoms develop, plate and screws can be removed once the fracture is completely healed, usually 6–12 months postoperatively.

If K-wires are used, they are typically removed after 4–6 weeks.