Comparison of Noncontact Plating with Conventional Methods and Osteosynthesis Techniques in the Treatment of Pediatric Femoral Fractures

Abstract

Introduction: Studies on surgical options in pediatric femoral fractures have been continuing for many years. We aimed to compare the noncontact plating we applied with the other techniques.
 Material and Methods: Pediatric patients treated for femoral shaft fracture were included. The patients were evaluated in terms of fracture type, time until surgery, duration of surgery, time of union, complications, Flynn criteria, radiological findings. 21 were in the elastic nailing (group 1), 27 were in the conventional plating (group 2), 11 were in the noncontact plating (group 3). 
 Results: The mean age was 8.3±1.4 (6-11) in group 1, 10.2±2.2 (7-15) in group 2, and 9.7±2.8 (7-15) in group 3. The time of union was 8.0±2.2 weeks (6-16) in group 1, 9.7±2.7 weeks (7-20) in group 2, and 7.1±1.0 weeks in group 3 (6 -9). In group 1, one patient had delayed union, two patients had a valgus deformity, two patients had minor wound site infection, and four patients had shortening of less than 2 cm. In group 2, three patients had a valgus deformity.Moreover, one patient underwent revision due to plate fracture. In group 3, no delayed union or deformity was observed in any patient.
 Conclusion: The fact that elastic nailing, which is the most frequently recommended method in pediatric femoral fractures. However, it is obvious that conditions such as the absence of splinting, better reduction, fewer deformity, early rehabilitation provide advantages over noncontact plating. While it is up to the surgeon's preference, noncontact plating can be applied safely and successfully.