CT-based analysis of the geometry of the distal femur

When applying minimally invasive techniques (MIO, Minimally Invasive Osteos ynthesis) to the fixation of the distal femur, the surgeon has access to a limited number of anatomical landmarks: namely the articular surface of the distal femur and a small portion of the distal lateral femoral cortex. A d etailed knowledge of the local anatomy facilitates the technique and preven ts complications. Using Kirschner wires placed at set positions in the dist al femur, we analyzed the measurements obtained from the 3D reconstructed h elical CT scans of 33 embalmed femora and we report on the anatomy of the d istal femur as it relates to supracondylar fracture fixation.