TENS for the surgical management of femoral shaft fractures in 6-14 years age group children

Abstract

Background. Fracture shaft of femur in pediatric age group is one of the most common leading emergencies. Children in the age group of 6-14 years are treated with either traction, hip spica, flexible/elastic stable retrograde intramedullary nail, or external fixators. We conducted a clinical prospective study on the use of Titanium Elastic Nailing System (TENS) for the treatment of femoral shaft fractures in children.
 Methods. The prospective study included 45 cases of fresh femoral shaft fractures. The Inclusion Criteria were a) Age group of 6-14 years, b) Recent fracture of femur shaft c) Transverse, short oblique, minimally comminuted fractures.
 Results. The clinical results were evaluated using Flynn’s criteria of scoring as, Excellent in 40 patients (88.89 %), Satisfactory in 5 patients (11.12 %) and poor in none. Radiological criteria for fracture union were assessed by using Anthony et al scale. Nine patients developed bursitis at entry point of the nail. Three patients had superficial infection due to bursitis. Full weight bearing was possible in mean time of 8.7 weeks (range; 7-12 weeks).
 Conclusion. TENS is very effective in management of paediatric shaft femur fractures in the age group of 6-14 years with advantages of early union, early mobilization and manageable complications.