Use of the fork plate for internal fixation of periprosthetic fractures and osteotomies in connection with total knee replacement.

Abstract

Six cases of periprosthetic fractures of the distal femur following total knee arthroplasty were treated with a newly developed fork plate. Instead of the blade of the condylar plate, this implant features two prongs that are adaptable in length. Because of the space between the prongs, the distal femoral fragment surrounds the anchorage pegs of the prosthesis and can be gripped near the joint line. The average patient age was 74 years. Follow-up ranged between 2 and 54 months. All patients were mobilized immediately postoperatively. Full weight bearing and bone consolidation was achieved by 9 weeks postoperatively.