Elastic Intramedullary Nailing for the Treatment of Displaced Diaphyseal Forearm Fractures in Children

Abstract

Background and purpose: Various techniques have been reported for the treatment of displaced and unstable diaphyseal forearm fractures in children. This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the results of intramedullary nailing using titanium elastic nails (TENs) for the treatment of pediatric forearm fractures. Methods: Fifty patients with displaced forearm fractures were treated with TENs. The indications for surgery included displaced closed fracture of radius and ulna, and displaced open type I fractures. Results: The mean time to union was 8 weeks (range, 6-10 weeks). At the time of the last follow-up, all of the patients had returned to their pre-injury activity level. The nails were removed in all patients after the fractures healed. There were no cases of nonunion, malunion, or other major complications. Conclusions: Intramedullary nailing with TENs allows a minimal incision, stable fixation, and a better cosmetic outcome than plating. We recommend that it should be as the treatment of choice for displaced diaphyseal forearm fractures in skeletally immature children.