Intramedullary splinting of femoral shaft fractures in children with flexible nails: early results.
- Author:
Arun Kumar Kaliya PERUMAL
1
;
Kanthimathi BALASUBRAMANIAN
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH: Adolescent; Bone Nails; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Femoral Fractures; diagnostic imaging; surgery; Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary; instrumentation; Humans; Male; Radiography; Treatment Outcome
- From:Singapore medical journal 2013;54(8):441-445
- CountrySingapore
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
INTRODUCTIONIndications for flexible intramedullary nailing, as well as advancements in this technique, have evolved considerably with time and individual experience. We implemented and studied a simplified version of the technique. Functional outcome, osseous union and related issues are discussed.
METHODSA total of 15 patients aged 5-15 years with diaphyseal femur fracture were selected for the study. The patients' fractures were stabilised with flexible intramedullary nails through lateral entry alone. After a minimum follow-up period of six months, the outcomes were analysed.
RESULTSThe mean patient age was 8.7 years, and patients were followed up for a mean duration of 12 months. Radiological union was achieved within a mean duration of 7.5 weeks. The outcomes were excellent in most of the cases.
CONCLUSIONAdequate fixation was achieved through the use of flexible nails as intramedullary splints. The results were comparable to that of the original technique. Further study is obligatory.
