Results of retrograde intramedullary nailing for distal femoral fractures--own experience.

BACKGROUND Fractures of the distal femoral epiphysis and metaphysis are complex musculoskeletal injuries posing a significant clinical problem. The incidence of compound femoral fractures has been growing owing to the rapid development of the motor industry. The fractures are most commonly the result of high-energy traumas during road accidents or falls from a height. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 74 patients with distal femoral fractures were treated at the Department of Traumatology and Orthopaedics of the Ministry of Defence's Military Institute of the Health Services, Central Clinical Hospital, in the years 2002-2006. Retrograde intramedullary femoral nailing was used in 39 patients (53%), including 17 (43%) women and 22 (57%) men. The primary objective of the surgical treatment was to restore the anatomy of the articular surface and the mechanical axis of the femur and convincing fracture fixation to enable early restoration of normal function in the knee joint. RESULTS Bony union was obtained during 4 post-operative months in 36 (93%) of the patients. Gradual weight-bearing was allowed between 2 and 6 post-operative months. CONCLUSION Retrograde intramedullary nailing of compound fractures of the femoral epiphysis and metaphysis affords the technical possibility of convincing fastening of bony fragments, while also allowing for early rehabilitation of the affected joint and helping to reduce primary deformities and secondary degenerative lesions for a good treatment outcome.