Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing for Pediatric Forearm Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of Thirty Four Cases

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this investigation was to present our institutional experience of 34 pediatric both bone forearm fractures treated with titanium elastic intramedullary nails. Methods: Thirty-four patients, who were treated with titanium elastic nail for both bone forearm fractures diagnosis between 2011 and 2016, were included in the study. Clinical and radiological evaluation of the patients was retrospectively analyzed. Results: Bone healing process was completed for all patients at a mean of 6.6 weeks. The implants were removed at a mean time of 9.7 months from the index operation. Complications, including skin infections at the entry side of the nail, were recorded in three (8.82%) patients. These three patients had type 1 open fracture according to the Gustilo-Anderson classification and were treated with first generation cephalosporins. In a subjective measure of outcome during follow-up, it was observed that 33 patients (97.06%) were very satisfied and one (2.94%) was satisfied; no patient reported being not satisfied. Conclusion: Since titanium elastic nailing is a safe and effective method of treatment with advantages of easy implantation and removal as well as excellent cosmetic and functional results, elastic stable intramedullary nailing is the first treatment option that should be considered in pediatric both bone forearm fractures.

Keywords

• Titanium elastic nail
• forearm fracture
• pediatric