Authors of section

Authors

Arnold Besselaar, Daniel Green, Andrew Howard

Executive Editor

James Hunter

General Editor

Fergal Monsell

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33-M/3.2   Metaphyseal, complete, multifragmentary

Definition

Multifragmentary complete metaphyseal fractures of the distal femur are classified as 33-M/3.2.

These fractures are often displaced.

Multifragmentary, complete metaphyseal fracture of the distal femur

Further characteristics

Children struck from the lateral side, common in sports and pedestrian injuries, often have lateral displacement of the distal fragment and valgus angulation.

Hyperextension mechanisms produce anterior displacement of the distal fragment and apex posterior angulation.

X-ray

Multifragmentary metaphyseal fracture with extension into the shaft in a 10-year-old male patient

X-ray of a multifragmentary, complete metaphyseal fracture of the distal femur
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