OBJECTIVETo explore the technique and clinical results of close reduction by manipulation and minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO) for the treatment of supracondylar femur fractures.

METHODSA retrospective study was conducted to analyze 39 patients with the supracondylar femur fractures who had been treated with close reduction by manipulation and MIPPO. There were 24 males and 15 females. The average age of the patients was 47 years old (ranged, 19 to 81 years). According to AO fracture classification for the distal femur fractures, there were 14 patients with type A1, 16 patients with type A2 and 9 patients with type A3.

RESULTSAll the patients were followed up, and the period ranged from 12 to 24 months (averaged 16 months). All the fractures showed union. The time required for the bony union ranged from 3 to 10 months (averaged 4 months). The patients were evaluated according to Kolmert distal femoral fracture functional evaluation system. Twenty-eight patients obtained an excellent result, 10 good and 1 fair.

CONCLUSIONThis method for the treatment of supracondylar femur fracture can get satisfactory function, high rate of bone union and less complications. Familiar with the close reduction technique and the geometry shape of anatomic plate as well as femoral supracondyar area are important to treat the supracondylar femur fractures.