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Orthopaedic trauma
Lower Limb Fractures
OVERVIEW
Lower limb fractures refer to breaks or cracks in the bones of the lower extremities, comprising the hip, thigh, knee, lower leg, ankle, and foot. These fractures can occur due to various reasons, including trauma, falls, sports injuries, or underlying medical conditions affecting bone health.
Types of lower limb fractures:
Lower limb fractures encompass a spectrum of injuries, each requiring a tailored approach for optimal treatment. Dr du Plessis is well-versed in managing various types of lower limb fractures, including:
- Hip fractures: Often seen in older adults, hip fractures can result from falls or low-energy trauma. Dr du Plessis employs advanced surgical techniques to stabilize and repair hip fractures where appropriate or else to perform hip replacement surgery as indicated, facilitating a quicker recovery.
- Femoral fractures: Fractures of the femur, the thigh bone, can occur in different regions. These fractures may be managed conservatively or require surgical intervention based on the severity and location.
- Knee fractures: Injuries to the knee can involve the patella (kneecap) or the bones around the knee joint. Dr du Plessis employs a comprehensive approach, considering factors like joint stability and ligament involvement.
- Tibial and fibular fractures: Fractures of the shinbones, the tibia and fibula may range from minor stress fractures to complex fractures requiring surgical intervention. Dr du Plessis employs advanced fixation techniques for optimal outcomes.
- Ankle and foot fractures: From the delicate bones of the ankle to the intricate structures of the foot, fractures in these regions demand specialized care. Dr du Plessis utilizes his expertise to assess and treat fractures, ensuring a return to normal function.
Causes lower limb fractures:
Lower limb fractures can result from a multitude of causes, including falls, accidents, sports injuries, and underlying medical conditions affecting bone density. Dr du Plessis meticulously evaluates each case to identify the root cause, allowing for a comprehensive treatment plan.
FAQ
PUBLICATIONS
Assessment of the Reliability and Reproducibility of the Langenskiöld
Classification in Blount’s Disease
DU PLESSIS J, Firth GB, Robertson A. Assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of the Langenskiöld classification in Blount's disease. Journal of Pediatric orthopedics. Part B. 2019 Nov 12.
The Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg
Foster M, Du Plessis J, Jansen van Vuuren M, Jingo M, Pietrzak JR. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg. SA Orthopaedic Journal. 2022;21(2):70-5.
Short term results following two stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection
DU PLESSIS, J et al. Short-term results following two-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection. South African Orthopaedic Journal, [S.l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 64-69, may 2020
Comparison of visual estimations of distal radius fracture radiographic parameters between different levels of orthopaedic doctors.
Naidoo V, Milner B, du Plessis J. SA Orthop J. 2025;24(1):26-31. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2309-8309/2025/v24n1a4
