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18 Jul 2025
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AO/OTA 33-C2 Femoral Shaft Fracture with Articular Involvement


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Clinical Details

Clinical and radiological findings:  A 29-year-old male involved in a motorcycle collision with a deer presented with normal vital signs and a lactate level of 1.8 mmol/L, indicating stable hemodynamics. The patient did not sustain major head, chest, or abdominal trauma and was deemed ready for operative intervention. Fine cut CT imaging confirmed the absence of a femoral neck fracture.

Preoperative Plan

Planning remarks:  The preoperative plan involved direct exposure of the articular component for anatomic reduction using clamp techniques, followed by interfragmentary compression with lag screws. The metaphyseal and diaphyseal components were to be managed with relative stability, focusing on restoring length, alignment, and rotation using a relatively stable implant.

Surgical Discussion

Patient positioning:  Supine positioning on a radiolucent table to facilitate intraoperative imaging and access to the femur.

Anatomical surgical approach:  A lateral approach to the femur was utilized, involving an incision along the lateral aspect of the thigh. Subvastus or direct lateral dissection was performed to expose the femoral shaft and articular surface. Careful soft tissue handling was maintained to preserve vascularity.

Operative remarks: 

The surgeon emphasized the importance of planning for primary versus secondary healing, with the articular component receiving absolute stability through direct reduction and compression techniques. The diaphyseal fracture was managed with relative stability, ensuring proper mechanical alignment while respecting biological principles.

Postoperative protocol:   Postoperative rehabilitation included early mobilization with toe-touch weight bearing (TTWB) for 6 weeks, progressing to partial weight bearing (PWB) as tolerated, and full weight bearing (FWB) by 12 weeks postoperatively.

Follow up:   Not specified

Orthopaedic implants used:   Lag screws for interfragmentary compression, relative stability implant (e.g., intramedullary nail or plate).

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