Flexible intramedullary nailing for distal femoral fractures in patients with myopathies

Abstract

Purpose Distal femoral fractures are quite common in nonambulating patients with myopathies, as they present marked osteoporosis. The deterioration of preexisting knee flexion contracture is a known problem, as these fractures are usually angulated posteriorly. The goals of treatment are to reduce immobilization and bed rest to a minimum, prevent function loss, and prevent refracture. The aim of our work was to investigate if these goals can be achieved by an operative treatment with closed reduction and flexible intramedullary nailing (FIN). Methods Six distal femoral fractures in four nonambulating patients with myopathies (three Duchenne muscular dystrophy and one nemaline myopathy) were treated with FIN between 2005 and 2011. Patient charts and radiographs were reviewed to determine if intra- or postoperative complications occurred and to detect the interval to wheelchair mobilization and hospital discharge. Pre- and postoperative knee flexion contracture was noted from the patient charts of our reeducation unit, where patients were already known preoperatively. Results Wheelchair mobilization without further immobilization after an interval of 2–3 days was possible. No aggravation of knee flexion contracture was detected in our patient series. No complications associated to the operative treatment itself and no refractures in the follow up occurred. Conclusion Our experience showed that FIN is a low invasive and sufficiently stable osteosynthesis in such fractures. Left in place, nails will reinforce mechanical stability.