Approach to Accessing the Femur

This video demonstrates a lateral approach to access the femur. An incision is made between the lateral condyle of the femur and the greater trochanter. The subcutaneous tissue is dissected, and the fascia is opened to separate the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris muscles, without damaging the muscle tissue. Retractors are used to expose the bone, and a total approach to the lateral face of the femur is achieved. The incision is then closed by suturing the fascia (in a simple continuous pattern), followed by subcutaneous and skin sutures.