Analysis of the Functional Outcome of Surgically Operated Floating Knee Injury

Background and objective A simultaneous ipsilateral femur and tibia fracture that separates the knee from the rest of the limb is known as a "floating knee." Both extra-articular and intra-articular fractures are included. The aim of this study is to analyze the functional outcome in surgically operated floating knee injuries. Methods The prospective study was conducted with 20 patients with floating knee injuries who were operated on at the Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences. These fractures are classified by using the modified Fraser's classification. Patients were followed up for a minimum of six months. The clinical and functional outcome of these patients was assessed by using the Karlström and Olerud criteria. Results The mean age of the patients was 34.50±13.48 years. The mechanism of injury was road traffic accidents (RTA) in 19 patients and a fall from height in one patient. Based on Fraser's classification, 11 had Type I fracture, two had Type IIA fracture, one had Type IIB fracture, and six had Type IIC fracture (p=0.34). Based on treatment, three patients with femur fractures were treated with cannulated cancellous (CC) screws. According to the Karlström and Olerud criteria, the outcome was acceptable in four patients (20%), excellent in seven patients (35%), good in six patients (30%), and poor in three patients (15%). According to Fraser's classification, seven patients with Type I fractures (63.6%) had excellent outcomes. Conclusion Long-term rehabilitation and careful surgical planning are advised for the fixation of the fractures. The final result for these individuals is determined by a combination of these factors.