SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC AND CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM DISTAL FEMORAL FRACTURE

Abstract

Background: Distal femoral fractures are the fractures which occurs in distal femur involving the intercondylar and supracondylar region. Currently they account for less than 1% of all fractures whereas among femoral fractures they account for 3% to 6%.These fractures are difficult to treat and notorious for the complications.

Aim: To find the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients suffering from distal femoral fracture.

Methodology: The present observational and prospective study was conducted in theDepartment of Orthopaedic, Govt. Medical College, Jammu, J&K for period of 1 year on 27 patients. General information including age, sex, residence, religion, marital status, side of fracture etc. were noted on separate sheet. All fractures were classified as per AO/Müller’s classification.

Results: Majority of patients i.e. 40.8% were between 18-30 years age group. 66.6% patients were males and only 33.4% were females. 63% patients were from rural area and 37% patients from urban area. Maximum percentage of patients i.e. 59.3% from Hindu community and 66.7% were married. RTA was the most common mode of injury involving 74.1% patients whereas, right limb fractures were most commonly involving 66.7% patients. As per AO/Muller’s classification B3 and C1 were most common fractures affecting 18.6% patients each.

Conclusion: From present study we conclude that the distal femoral fractures were more common in young age group and RTA is the most common cause. Hence it is recommended to the authorities to implement strict traffic rules so that over speeding of vehicle can be prevented which may lead to decrease in incidence of high velocity trauma.

Key words: Fractures, Road traffic accidents, Injury.