A Comparative Analysis of Functional Outcome of Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Locking Compression Plate Fixation and Non-Locking Plate Fixation
Article Information
Publication Timeline
- Received20 June 2025
- Accepted21 July 2025
- Published
Abstract
Background: Distal femur fractures represent a significant orthopedic challenge, requiring optimal fixation techniques to restore knee joint function and promote fracture healing. The choice between Locking Compression Plate (LCP) fixation and Non-Locking Plate fixation significantly impacts functional outcomes.
Objective: To compare the functional outcomes of distal femur fractures treated with LCP fixation versus Non-Locking Plate fixation, focusing on knee function, fracture union time, range of motion, and post-operative recovery.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Saraswathi Institute of Medical Sciences involving 60 adult patients (aged 18-70 years) with distal femur fractures. Patients were divided into two groups: 30 treated with LCP fixation and 30 with Non-Locking Plate fixation. Fractures were classified using Muller's classification system. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee scoring system.
Results: The LCP group demonstrated superior functional outcomes with 83.2% achieving excellent knee scores compared to 75.3% in the Non-Locking Plate group (p=0.004). Mean range of motion was significantly higher in the LCP group (111° ± 18.1) compared to the Non-Locking Plate group (92° ± 17.2) (p=0.0001). LCP fixation was preferred for complex fractures (C1, C2, C3 types), while Non-Locking Plates were more commonly used for simpler fractures.
Conclusion: LCP fixation provides superior functional outcomes compared to Non-Locking Plate fixation, particularly for complex distal femur fractures, demonstrating better knee function, improved range of motion, and faster rehabilitation.
Keywords
Distal Femur FracturesLocking Compression PlateNon-Locking PlateFunctional OutcomesOrthopedic SurgeryReferences
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How to Cite
Jain, T., Sahu, R. L., Bhatia, R., & Pratap, H. (2025). A Comparative Analysis of Functional Outcome of Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Locking Compression Plate Fixation and Non-Locking Plate Fixation. International Journal of Medical and All Body Health Research, 6(3), 200-207. https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMBHR.2025.6.3.200-207
Jain, Tushar, et al. "A Comparative Analysis of Functional Outcome of Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Locking Compression Plate Fixation and Non-Locking Plate Fixation." International Journal of Medical and All Body Health Research, vol. 6, no. 3, 2025, pp. 200-207. https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMBHR.2025.6.3.200-207.
Jain, T., Sahu, R. L., Bhatia, R. and Pratap, H. (2025) 'A Comparative Analysis of Functional Outcome of Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Locking Compression Plate Fixation and Non-Locking Plate Fixation', International Journal of Medical and All Body Health Research, 6(3), pp. 200-207. doi: 10.54660/IJMBHR.2025.6.3.200-207.
Jain T, Sahu RL, Bhatia R, Pratap H. A Comparative Analysis of Functional Outcome of Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Locking Compression Plate Fixation and Non-Locking Plate Fixation. International Journal of Medical and All Body Health Research. 2025;6(3):200-207. doi:10.54660/IJMBHR.2025.6.3.200-207
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