[Biomechanical study of double-plate fixation for comminuted fractures of the distal femur].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the new treatment approach for comminuted fractures of the distal femur.

METHODS

Supra- and intercondylar comminuted fractures were induced in the femurs of 20 fresh adult cadavers, 10 of which received fixation with lateral steel plates and medial polyethylenes plates while the rest with single plate in the lateral only. Biomechanical tests of bending, torsion and compression were performed.

RESULTS

Biomechanical test demonstrated that double-plate fixation provided better resistance to compression (P<0.05) as well as bending and torsion (P<0.01) than single-plate fixation did.

CONCLUSION

Double-plate fixation is effective and may have potential clinical value in treating comminuted fractures of the distal femur.