Is conservative treatment still gold standard for the management of both-bone forearm fracture in children?

Abstract

Background: Forearm diaphyseal fractures constitute around 6% of all other children's fractures. Despite conservative management is proven and gold standard but still operative management is on rise. Aims and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome in conservative and surgical management of both-bone forearm fractures in children. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in children aged 3–12 years. Clinical and radiological features, time for union, angular correction over a period of management, and functional outcome were assessed. Data were entered and analyzed with Epi Info software. Results: There were 48 males (72.7%) and 18 (27.3%) females, with a mean age of 85 months (±29.7). In the present study, 34 (51.2%) at middle third was the most common site of diaphyseal fracture followed by distal third 28 (42.2) and proximal one-third. Conclusion: Fractures treated conservatively had greater healing potential and faster healing, whereas functional outcome was comparable in both conservatively and surgically treated patients.