Use of flexible intramedullary nailing in treating diaphyseal fractures of long bone of lower limb in children

Abstract

Background: Management of diaphyseal fractures of long bones of the lower limb in the age group of preschool to early teenage has multiple methods of treatment ranging from conservative management to internal fixation using open/closed reduction methods. Objective: The study was performed to know the potential of using principles of intramedullary nailing in treating diaphyseal fractures of long bones of the lower limb in preschool to early teenage population. Materials and Methods: Patients with diaphyseal long bones fractures of tibia and femur in between the age group ranging from 5 to 14 years were treated by closed reduction and internal fixation using titanium elastic nailing system (TENS) nail. The results were evaluated on the basis of radiological signs of union and Flynn's criteria. The average time after which surgery was done is 2 days. Results: Of 14 patients, eight patients had diaphyseal femur fracture and remaining six had diaphyseal tibia fracture treated by TENS nailing.Thirteen patients achieved union in a mean time of 8 weeks with full-weight-bearing in around 10 weeks. The average time duration of hospital stay was 6 days and follow-up period was up to 24 weeks. Conclusion: The use of flexible intramedullary nailing in properly selected patients in the preschool to early teenage population is an effective method of treating diaphyseal fractures of long bones of the lower limb.