Prospective study of functional and radiological outcome of diaphysial fracture of femur in children, in age group of 5-15 years treated with, titanium elastic nail

Abstract

To achieve the effectiveness of intramedullary fixation of displaced long bones shaft fractures in skeletally immature children using the TENS intramedullary nails. Patients and Methods: The case records of 30 children in the age group of 5-15years, who underwent fixation with titanium intramedulary nails because of long bones fractures were reviewed. The average age of the patients was 11.7 years, and mean follow-up was 41.3 months. Subjective satisfaction was assessed according to Flynn et al’s criteria. Results: All patients achieved complete healing at a mean of 7.5 weeks. Complications. Were recorded in 2(6.3%) patients and included, six entry site skin irritations, and two skin infections at the entry site. In a subjective measure of outcome at follow-up, 89% of patients were very satisfied and 11% satisfied; no patients reported their outcome as not satisfied. The implants were removed at a median time of six months. Conclusion: Elastic Stable Intra-medullary Nailing, TENS is the method of choice for the paediatrics patients, because it is minimaly invasive and shows very good functional and cosmetic results. It allows an early functional and cast-free follow-up with a quick pain reduction.