Risk Factors for Distal Femoral Periprosthetic Fractures after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review of Patient and Implant Variables.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review examined risk factors for distal femoral periprosthetic fractures following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), focusing on patient and implant characteristics. Thirteen studies were analyzed, revealing that the most affected population typically consists of females over 70 years old with an ASA score of III. These fractures often occur due to low-energy trauma or falls from standing.

Key findings

• The most common demographic for periprosthetic fractures is females over 70 years old.
• Patients with periprosthetic fractures are often osteopenic or osteoporotic.
• These fractures are more likely to occur from low-energy trauma compared to native distal femur fractures.

Why it matters

Understanding the risk factors for periprosthetic fractures can help clinicians identify at-risk patients, enabling targeted counseling and preventive strategies to reduce complications associated with total knee arthroplasty.