Dynamic condylar screw (DCS) fixation in treatment of supracondylar fracture of distal femur

Objective To evaluate the result of dynamic condylar screw in terms of operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, union, range of motion of knee, complication and need for bone grafting, and to compare it with other technique published in literature. Patients and Methods This study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedics, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar from May 2007 to March 2009. It included 33 patients with supracondylar fracture of femur treated by dynamic condylar screw. All fractures were closed and non was pathological. All were operated under General/Spinal anesthesia ans dynamic condylar screw was put as per standard protocol. External protection was given to all patients for two weeks. All were followed for one year, two were lost to follow up and the study was completed on 31 patients. Results Out of 31 patients 23 were male, and 8 were Female with male to female ratio 3:1. Average operative time was 80 minutes and average hospital stay was eight days. There were 2 nonunion, 3 infections and 1 implant failure. Two developed stiffness of the knee joint. Functional outcome was assessed using the Neer's criteria. Conclusion Dynamic condylar screw is a still a very good option in our circumstances but we should use it as a bridge plate in comminuted supra condylar fracture of femur to avoid infection and need for bone grafting.