Overview
what it is and why it matters
Distal femur fractures occur in the metaphysis and condylar region of the femur immediately above the knee joint. They occur in two populations: young adults with high-energy trauma (fall from height, sports collision) where the bone is normal, and elderly osteoporotic patients where a low-energy fall breaks fragile bone. Periprosthetic fractures — fractures above a knee replacement — are a growing subset.
Diagnosis
exam first, imaging secondSevere knee pain, swelling, deformity, and inability to bear weight. AP and lateral X-rays of the knee and distal femur are the primary studies. CT scan with 3D reconstruction is used for comminuted intra-articular fractures to guide fixation planning.
Treatment Path
how care progresses at OSI1
Non-operative management
Traction or casting for non-displaced fractures in non-ambulatory patients or those with prohibitive surgical risk.
Surgical Options at OSI
if non-operative care isn't enoughMost displaced distal femur fractures require surgical fixation to restore the articular surface, allow early joint motion, and enable mobilization.
Providers Who Treat Distal Femur Fracture
sports-medicine team
David B. Templin, M.D.
Trent Twitero, M.D.
Further Reading
authoritative sourcesExternal patient-education references and related OSI pages for additional background: