| Abstract [eng] |
Introduction: Distal femur fracture non-union is a highly complex clinical condition with a high complication rate and a significant negative impact on patients' quality of life. It is influenced by the anatomical and biological properties of the femur, as well as patient- and surgery-related risk factors. Although progress has been made in recent years in the treatment of non-union of these fractures, non-union of distal femoral fractures remains a problem in orthopaedic surgery. Aim: To review the recent scientific literature on the causes of distal femoral fracture non-union, surgical treatment methods and to analyze a related clinical case. Material and methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, ClinicalKey, and ScienceDirect databases. The keywords in English "distal femur", "fracture", "non-union", "anatomy", "etiology", "epidemiology", "risk factors", "diagnosis", "treatment", "surgical treatment", "rehabilitation" and their combinations were used, focusing on scientific literature from the past 5 years. 57 most relevant scientific articles meeting the aim of the study, written in English with full-text access, and their sources were found and included. Case report: A case of bilateral non-union in distal femur fractures of a 56-year-old female patient is presented. The patient was operated at the Republican Vilnius University Hospital. A total of 7 surgical treatment methods were applied. The treatment lasted 8 years. Results: The diaphysis of the distal femur is characterized by poor vascularization and presents a risk of non-union in this area. The most common causes of non-union in distal femur fractures are improper or inadequate fixation, vascular damage and infection of the fracture site. With an aging population and an increasing frequency of fractures related to osteoporosis, this clinical condition will be diagnosed more frequently in the future. Although there are many different treatment methods, an optimal treatment strategy is not clear. Conclusions: The vascularization of the distal femoral diaphysis plays a crucial role in the etiology of non-union in distal femur fractures. The spectrum of treatment methods for this condition is vast and clinical outcomes vary. To identify the most significant risk factors and most effective treatment methods, it is important to conduct more scientific research in this area. |
