Introduction: Fracture of the distal end of femur may result following direct impact as seen in cases of assault, road traffic accidents and after fall from height. Due to strong muscles surrounding femur these fractures are usually displaced. Retrograde intramedullary nailing has been considered a good surgical option with minimal complications and better outcome in patients with distal femur fracture. The purpose of the present study was to find out the outcome of distal femoral fractures treated with retrograde nailing.

Aims and Objectives: To study the outcome of distal femoral fracture cases treated by retrograde intramedullary nailing.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the department of orthopedics of a tertiary care medical college situated in an urban area. All patients admitted with distal femoral fractures and treated with retrograde nailing were included in this study depending upon a predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed history was taken in all patients also clinical examination and relevant imaging was done. All patients were treated by retrograde nailing. Patients were followed up at least for 1 year. The outcome was assessed using Tegner Lysholm Scoring Scale.

Results: Out of 25 cases with distal femoral fractures there were 18 (72%) males and 7 (28%) females with a M:F ratio of 1:0.38. The most common cause of fracture was found to be road traffic accidents (68%). Individuals with high BMI were found to be prone for fractures. The difference of fracture risk between individuals with normal and high BMI was found to be statistically significant (P<0.005). At the end of 1 year follow up 84% patients had excellent outcome while Good and fair outcome was seen in 8%, 4% respectively. Only 1 patient had poor outcome and had a Tegner Lysholmscore of less than 65.

Conclusion: Retrograde intramedullary nailing was found to be very effective method of treatment with excellent outcome in patients with distal femoral fractures. The studied cases were found to have satisfactory functional outcome during 1 year follow up period.

Keywords: Distal Femoral Fractures, Retrograde nailing, Functional Outcome,Tegner Lysholm Scoring Scale.

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Dr Rahil Jiwani

Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopedics,

Flat FF2, Hussaini Plaza Apartments, Khoja Colony, Sahyadri Nagar, Vishranbagh, Sangli, 416416