Study on outcome of treatment of paediatric femoral shaft fracture by titanium elastic nails

Abstract

Background: Although the incidence of paediatric femoral shaft fractures is about 1.6%, it’s treatment is controversial, especially in children of age 6-12 years. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was performed at Sher E Bangla Medical College Hospital, Barishal, Bangladesh from January 2020 to December 2020, on 7 children (n=7). There were limited number of patients included due to this study accomplished in the perphery city of Bangladesh. Both male and female children with simple transverse and short oblique fractures were included. Results: Among the 7 cases, 6 were closed femoral shaft fracture and 1 was Gustilo Anderson type 1 open fracture. The mean age of the patients was 8.57 years, ranging from 5-13 years. 6 were male and 1 was female, with a male female ratio of 6:1. In 4 cases right side was affected and in 3, left side was affected. 5 cases were treated by closed reduction and the rest 2 cases were treated by open reduction. The average union of fracture was 9.7 (6-15) weeks. Results were evaluated using Flynn et al scoring criteria, with 4 excellent, 2 good and 1 poor outcome during the 5-11 months follow up period. Conclusion: Titanium elastic nailing has considerably decreased the period of immobilization, ensured early return to normal life and provides psychological advantages. It provides better outcome in simple transverse of short oblique mid diaphyseal femoral fractures.