We studied the end results of condylar fractures of the knee, which had displacement and were treated by open reduction and internal fixation. 51 patients (male: 29, female: 22, average age: 46 years old) were surveyed. The period of follow up ranged from 13 to 114 months (average: 46 months). 76 per cent of them had acceptable knee function. The result of mono condylar fracture of the femur were better, but those of medial condylar fracture of the tibia and bicondylar fracture of the femur were worse.
Osteoarthritic changes on X-ray examination were found in 59 per cent. They had no significant relation to the functional results.
Residual instability of the knee was found in 45 per cent and it was the principal factor that led to bad results. It was very important to repair torn ligaments and displaced fragments that might cause instability.
