Novel CT-based classification of Hoffa fracture and optimal treatment strategies

Haiming Chen^1,2Mingwei He¹Guodong Li¹Jinqiu Wang³Kaimin Yang⁴Qingjun Wei^5*

• ¹Department of Orthopaedics Trauma and Hand Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Region, China
• ²Department of Orthopedics, the First People’s Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Shanxi Province, China
• ³Department of Orthopedics, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
• ⁴Physical Examination Center, Red Cross Hospital of Yulin City, Yulin, China
• ⁵Department of Orthopedics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China

The imaging characteristics of Hoffa fracture are gradually changing, leading to limitations of the existing classification system and necessitating the development of a novel classification system to guide clinical management.Objective: This study proposes a novel classification method for Hoffa fracture through a retrospective analysis of CT imaging characteristics, biomechanical studies, and case reports and suggests corresponding surgical approaches and internal fixation methods.The CT imaging characteristics of 115 adults with Hoffa fractures from five tertiary hospitals were analyzed, accompanied by a retrospective review of biomechanical studies and case reports, to propose a novel classification system.Corresponding surgical approaches and internal fixation methods were recommended. Six independent observers evaluated the inter-and intra-observer reliability of the novel classification system.The new classification method includes four broad types, and the recommended surgical approach and fixation strategy for each type have been identified. The mean Kappa coefficients for the first and second rounds of interobserver were 0.766 and 0.752, respectively, with a mean Kappa coefficient for intraobserver of 0.853.The proposed classification system aligns closely with the clinical characteristics of Hoffa fracture, facilitates the differentiation of various fracture types, and recommends appropriate surgical approaches and fixation methods. This classification method also presents good inter-and intra-observer reliability and can be used in clinical management.