Comparing single and dual implant methods for fixing distal femur fractures

Single Implant Versus Dual Implant Fixation of Distal Femur Extra Articular and Complete Articular Fractures - PRORP

Not applicable Interventional Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NCT06286670

This study is testing whether using one or two implants to fix certain types of thigh bone fractures helps patients heal better and get back to their daily activities faster.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment144 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWake Forest University Health Sciences Academic / other
Locations16 sites (Birmingham, Alabama and 15 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06286670 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of single versus dual implant fixation techniques in patients with specific types of distal femur fractures. The study focuses on understanding which surgical approach leads to better healing outcomes and a quicker return to daily activities for patients. Given the high rate of nonunion in these fractures, the research seeks to identify a method that could enhance recovery and reduce the need for additional surgeries. Participants will be monitored for their recovery progress and functional return post-surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have sustained displaced distal femur fractures requiring surgical treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with certain injury characteristics that prevent dual implant treatment or those with multisystem injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved healing rates and faster recovery times for patients with distal femur fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have explored various fixation methods for fractures, but this specific comparison of single versus dual implant fixation in distal femur fractures is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age greater than or equal to 18 years
* Surgically treated displaced distal femur extra articular or complete articular fractures

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with injury features that preclude treatment with 2 implants
* Patients unlikely to follow-up due to homelessness, or planning follow up at another institution
* Body Mass Index (BMI) \> 40
* Injury due to ground level fall
* Patient that speaks neither English or Spanish
* Patients with multisystem injuries that could preclude return to work
* \< 18 years of age
* Prisoner

Where this trial is running

Birmingham, Alabama and 15 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Articular FracturesDistal Femur FractureDistal Femur complete articular FractureDistal Femur extraarticular Fracture
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.