Pediatric physeal slide-traction plate fixation for pathological distal femoral fracture caused by unicameral bone cyst in adolescents

BACKGROUND: Most patients suffering from distal femoral unicameral bone cysts (UBCs) are adolescents that require an early return to normal activities, including school attendance and sports exercises. However, the optimal choice of implants for such patients remains controversial. This study evaluated the application of pediatric physeal slide-traction plate (PPSP) in the treatment of pathological distal femoral fracture caused by UBCs. METHODS: Between Jan 2014 and Jan 2016, 11 (male = 6, female = 5) patients were reviewed retrospectively. Age, sex, operative time, limb-length discrepancy (LLD), and valgus angulation were all recorded for every patient. RESULTS: The average age of 11 patients was 12.2 ± 1.1 years. The operating time was 94.8 ± 7.8 min. The postoperative hospital stay was 5 to 7 days. The epiphyseal morphology in the operative leg was nearly normal. The plate was removed in an average of 19.5 ± 3.1 months. The knee range of motion (ROM) was normal in 9 patients, whereas 2 female patients reported a loss of less than 10 degrees of ROM as compared to the contralateral knee joint. Breakage of plates or refracture did not occur in our cases. All patients had a follow-up of at least 24 months. At the latest follow-up visit, all patients walked without a limp. None of the patients manifested obvious LLD and valgus deformity. CONCLUSION: PPSP combined with curettage and bone grafting allows early mobilization and produces satisfactory outcomes for pathological fracture of distal femur secondary to UBCs in adolescents.