Modified Subvastus Approach to the Medial Distal Femur: Cadaveric Dissection

Abstract

This review describes a modified technique for the surgical management of a displaced medial femoral condyle fracture in a 22-year-old man after a motorcycle accident. This case involved an open reduction and the use of a medial buttress plate to restore joint congruity and reduce the risk of varus failure. The modified transfascial approach through the VMO muscle belly was used to facilitate ample exposure while safely protecting the neurovascular structures behind the robust adductor fascia. This technique highlights the utility and benefits of the modified transfascial approach compared with the traditional medial subvastus approach when used in medial distal femur fracture fixation.