CT improves detection of coronal plane fractures and operative planning
Early immobilization reduces pain and soft-tissue injury
Weight-bearing after surgery individualized to fixation stability and surgeon plan
Patient Discharge Instructions
copy discharge instructions
Discharge packet
Keep splint clean and dry
Elevation above heart as much as possible for 48-72 hours
Ice 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily
Non-weight-bearing until orthopedics clears
Pain control plan
Acetaminophen as directed
NSAID only if approved and no contraindication
Opioid only for breakthrough pain
Return to ED now for red flags
Increasing pain not controlled by medication
New numbness or tingling
Toes cold, pale, or blue
Increasing tightness or severe pain with toe movement
Splint too tight, wet, broken, or causing skin injury
Fever or wound drainage
Follow-up plan
Orthopedics within 48-72 hours
Earlier if worsening pain or swelling
References
Guidelines and key sources
Distal femur fractures clinical overview and CT role for Hoffa fracture
StatPearls Distal Femur Fractures
Review article on distal femur fractures and CT utility for coronal plane injury
Classification references
AO/OTA distal femur classification summary source
Postoperative mobilization guidance
NICE NG38 fractures non-complex guidance for distal femoral fractures
Educational trauma references
Orthobullets distal femur fractures summary and vascular injury note
AAOS OrthoInfo distal femur fractures overview
SymptomDx is an educational tool for medical professionals. It does not replace clinical judgment. Verify all clinical data and drug dosages with authoritative sources.