Preliminary experience with bioabsorbable intramedullary nails for paediatric forearm fractures: results of a mini-series

Abstract

Introduction Forearm fractures are common injuries in childhood. Completely displaced and unstable fractures require surgical intervention. Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing (ESIN) is widely used in treating these fractures. Although stainless steel and titanium implants are the most widely used, resorbable nails are becoming an option.Aim To present our initial experience in treating forearm fractures in children with Resorbable Stable Intramedullary Nailing (ReSIN).Methods The authors present several cases treated with ReSIN, their summarry and describe the techniqual steps. Results The series included 4 patients operated on with ReSIN. Bone union with anatomic and functional recovery was stated in all cases within the period of 5-7 months after surgery.Discussion More and more paediatric fractures can be treated with absorbable implants and result in good outcomes. It can be said that the new methods enabled similar stable fixation as with metal implants, which is considered the gold standard. A distinct advantage over metal implants is that there is no need to remove the implant, thus avoiding a second operation and reducing the risk of surgical complications. Another positive thing is that absorbable implants can be sunk the level of the cortical layer of the bone, they can easily be dropped under the skin. The only drawback of the method is the price of the implants.Conclusion The management of paediatric diaphyseal forearm fractures with bioabsorbable intramedullary nails is a promising emerging alternative to the gold standard ESIN technique.