Vancouver C

Open

The open technique is a common procedure for periprosthetic fracture fixation. Using a lateral subvastus approach after ligation of the perforator vessels the bone is exposed. The incision has to be long enough to allow for the application of a plate of sufficient length. Bony fragments have to be handled with care to avoid damaging the soft tissue that provides the local blood supply.

Mini-Open

The ´mini-open´ technique is an alternative in two part spiral fractures classified as OTA (Orthopaedic Trauma Association) type 32 or 33-A1. Using this technique an incision is made that is sufficiently long to expose the fracture region. It is based on the fact that adequate restoration of axis and rotation can be best achieved by direct manipulation and compression of fragments.

Minimally Invasive

The concept of the minimally invasive technique is a totally closed reduction, which can be applied in OTA Type 32 A2 – C3 or 33 A2 – A3 fractures.

After closed reduction the plate is inserted after a short 3-4cm incision.