Elastic Nailing Research Articles

Titanium Elastic Nails for Distal Radius-ulna Fractures in Young Dogs

Background: Radius-ulna is the most frequently fractured bone of the pectoral limb in dogs with high predisposition to distal fractures. The smaller size of the distal fragment and open physis restrict the use of rigid fracture fixation techniques in distal fractures of growing dogs. Titanium elastic nails (TENs) are recommended in medical practice to stabilize long bone fractures in children. There is paucity of literature on TENs for the repair of radius-ulna fractures in dogs. Methods: This clinical study enrolled 10 dogs (7 grey hound and one each of Crossbred, Pomerenarian and Siberian Husky) suffering from distal radius-ulna (6 transverse and 4 short oblique) fractures since a mean ± SD duration of 3.40±4.5 days. The mean ± SD age and body weight of the dogs was 12.60±6.45 months and 14.09±6.41 Kg, respectively. All except one fracture was stabilized with two TENs inserted into the medullary canal of radial bone in a normograde manner from distal to proximal end using open cranio-lateral surgical approach. Result: Majority fractures achieved satisfactory reduction (n=8), radiographically. Weight bearing scores on walking increased gradually from day 12 (1.62 ± 1.51) to 45th (2.57±1.51), day 60th (3.75±0.5) and day 90 (4.0±0). Five dogs had uneventful recovery whereas remaining had major (n=2) or minor (n=3) complications. The length of the operated bone was non-significantly lesser as compared to contralateral healthy bone on day 60. Goniometric assessment of carpal joint of operated limb showed restricted range of motion on day 12 that improved to the near normal as contralateral healthy limb on day 60. Long-term results showed full (9) and acceptable (1) functional outcome. In conclusions, the TENs technique is simple and less invasive alternative fixation technique for distal radius-ulna fractures in young and light weighing dogs. As per authors, this is the first report on the use of TENs for the management of radius-ulna fracture in dogs.

Comparison of Titanium Elastic Nailing and End-threaded Intramedullary Pinning for Distal Femoral Fractures in Young Dogs

Background: Femur fractures are common in immature dogs. As compared to stainless steel, titanium implants are lighter and allow controlled micro-motion at the site of fracture that stimulates early callus formation by limiting stress shielding. Cited literature reports successful clinical use of titanium elastic nails for the stabilization of long bone fractures in young human patients; however, there is paucity of information on this technique is dogs. This study was planned with an objective to compare titanium elastic nails (TENS) and single end-threaded pin for the management of femoral fractures in young dogs. Methods: The study included 20 clinical cases (10 male and 10 female) of dogs suffering from distal femoral fracture with a mean ± SD age of 5.70 ± 5.60 month, body weight 11.09 ± 4.48 Kg since 3.05 ± 2.35 days. The cases were divided into 2 groups; using TENS (n=10; group 1) and stainless steel end-threaded intramedullary pin (n=10; group 2). Result: Group 1 dogs demonstrated better fracture reduction score, early and uniform callus and better implant stability as compared to group 2, radiographically. Early weight bearing and minimum postoperative complications with better functional outcome including joint mobility was reported in group 1. In conclusions, TENS is superior fracture fixation technique for the repair of supracondylar or distal third femur fractures in young dogs with better functional outcome, minimal stiffness of stifle joint and early weight bearing, in comparison to single end threaded intramedullary pin.

Surgical Treatment With Titanium Elastic Nail (TEN) for Failed Conservative Treatment of Acute Monteggia Lesions in Children.

This study evaluated the results of intramedullary osteosynthesis with titanium elastic nail (TEN) in the surgical treatment of Monteggia lesions in children aged 12 and under. Patients who underwent surgery with the TEN method between 2013 and 2019 were screened retrospectively. The inclusion criteria were patients who failed conservative treatment, a history of acute trauma (<14 d after injury), age 12 years and under, patients who underwent intramedullary osteosynthesis with TEN when surgical treatment is required, a follow-up period of over 12 months, absence of congenital upper extremity and bone anomalies, and no history of trauma to the ipsilateral elbow. For functional classification, the Grace and Eversmann Criteria were used to evaluate union, pronation, and supination, while the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was used to assess overall elbow function and limitations. Thirty-eight patients (26 male/12 female) were included in the study. The median age was 8.0 (6 to 10) years old and follow-up period was 26.0 (16 to 39) months. The mean value of the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 97.1, 32 cases were excellent and 6 cases had good results. While the average age was 9.4 years in patients with mobility limitations, it was 7.1 years in patients without mobility limitations. Statistically, less movement restriction was observed in patients of younger age. Length unstable ulnar fracture pattern for Monteggia lesions and those with secondary loss of reduction, intramedullary stabilization of the ulna fracture with TEN helps to achieve good functional and radiologic outcomes. Level III.

Titanium Elastic Nailing System, An Effective Way Of Pediatric Forearm Fracture Management

Introduction- Pediatric both bone forearm fracture commonly encountered in orthopedic emergency, their treatment varies widely from simple sling and cast to operative fixation with nailing and plating with no definitive consensus on one treatment modality. Although most of cases are satisfactorily managed with conservative measure, current innovation in elastic nailing, instrumentation and poor compliance to cast and frequent revisits to check the adequacy of reduction makes treatment with elastic titanium nailing an excellent means of intervention in unstable both bones fractures in children.Materials methods- The study was conducted at Dept of orthopedics, SHKM Govt medical college Nuh , India, which included 30 patients, 18 male, 12 female with age from 6 to 15years, with mean age of 10 years. Twenty patients had middle third fractures, 6 proximal 1/3rd and 3 distal 1/3rd fractures. Closed reduction was done in 24 (80%) patients and 6(20%) patients needed open reduction at # site.The transverse fractures were seen in 17 patients, oblique fractures in 6 patients, communicated in 4patients and spiral fractures in 3 patients. Results- The functional Outcome as per Price et al Criteria (7) was Excellent in 28 patients, good in 2 patients. None of the patients showed poor function at the final follow up at 1 year. Discussion and conclusion- Tens allows micro motion at fracture site due to elasticity of nails elastic deformation within the medullary canal creates a bending moment within the long bone that is not rigid, but that is stable enough to reduce and fix the fracture, and favors callous formation and bone healing. The treatment of pediatric both bones fractures with TENS continue to be the unparallel success and reliable treatment method with predictable outcome and minimal complication. We certainly recommend this type of treatment in angulated and unstable forearm fractures in children.

External fixation versus elastic stable intramedullary nailing in the treatment of open tibial shaft fractures in children

IntroductionExternal fixator (EF) is a popular choice for open tibial fractures, but pin tract infection (PTI) and refracture are common complications. Elastic stable intramedullary nail (ESIN) has been reported in the treatment for open tibial fractures. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of EF vs. ESIN in the treatment for open tibial shaft fracture in children retrospectively.MethodsPatients aged 5–11 years with Gustilo-Anderson II and IIIA tibial shaft fracture treated at our institute from January 2008 to January 2018 were reviewed retrospectively and categorized into EF and ESIN groups. Patients with pathological fracture, neuromuscular disorder, metabolic disease, previous tibial fracture or instrumentation, and polytrauma were excluded. Patients with follow-up < 24 months or incomplete medical records were also excluded.ResultsIn all, 55 patients (33 males, 22 females) were included in the EF group, whereas 37 patients (21 males, 16 females) were included in the ESIN group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups concerning sex, age, body weight, duration from injury to surgery, Gustilo-Anderson (GA) classification, and concomitant injuries. There was no case of nonunion and malunion in either group. The angulation at the latest follow-up was higher in the EF group than the ESIN group (P < 0.01). The radiological union was faster in the ESIN group (7.0 ± 0.9 weeks) than those in the EF group (9.0 ± 2.2 weeks) (P < 0.01). Limb length discrepancy (LLD) was more in the EF group (12.1 ± 4.4, mm) than in the ESIN group (7.3 ± 4.3, mm) (P < 0.01).ConclusionESIN is a viable option in selected patients of GA grade II and IIIA open tibial fractures with comparable clinical outcomes as external fixator. Pin tract infection is the most troublesome complication in the EF group while implant prominence is a nuisance in the ESIN group.

Implant removal of osteosynthesis. Results of a survey among Spanish orthopaedic surgeons

IntroductionThe indications on extraction of osteosynthesis material (EMO) are not well defined in the current literature deriving in relative indications, depending on experiences, customs or patient's request. The aim of this article is to assess the beliefs, indications, usual practice and perceived complications of surgeons in Spain regarding OME. MethodsWe conducted a questionnaire of 44 questions covering general demographics, general and subjective opinion on implant removal, specific attitudes by implant type and anatomical location, and personal habits. Results164 questionnaires were received. The most frequent indications are patellar and olecranon locks and elastic nails in children. 56% remove the implant at the patient's request, 31% always remove it in children, 28% do it in asymptomatic patients to avoid possible surgical problems, 14% to avoid a possible peri-implant fracture and 9% by simple preference. The most frequent intraoperative complications are surgery longer than expected, bone growth over the implant, rounded screw head core, cold fusion, difficulty in finding the implant and impossibility to remove part of the implant. The most frequent postoperative complication was persistence of symptoms 39.8%. ConclusionThe results provide information to advise the patient regarding the expected clinical outcome and intra and postoperative complications. The surgeon should cautiously indicate extraction in the asymptomatic patient given the high rate of complications.

Implant removal associated complications after ESIN osteosynthesis in pediatric fractures

PurposeESIN (elastic stable intramedullary nailing) is considered the gold standard for various pediatric fractures. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence and type of complications during or after TEN (titanium elastic nail) removal.MethodsA retrospective data analysis was performed. Metal removal associated complications and preoperative extraosseous length/outlet angle of TENs as possible causes of complications were assessed.ResultsThe complication rate in 384 TEN removals was 3.1% (n = 12). One major complication (rupture of M. extensor pollicis brevis) was documented. One refracture at the forearm occurred, however, remodeling prior TEN removal was completed. Ten minor complications were temporary or without irreversible restrictions (3 infections, 5 scaring/granuloma, 2 temporary paraesthesia).In 38 cases (16 forearms, 10 femora, 9 humeri, 3 lower legs), intra-operative fluoroscopy had to be used to locate the implants. In patients with forearm fractures, extraosseous implant length was relatively shorter than in cases without fluoroscopy (p = 0.01), but outlet angle of TENs was not significantly different in these two groups (28.5° vs 25.6°). In patients with femur fractures, extraosseous implant length and outlet angle were tendentially shorter, respectively, lower, but this did not reach statistical significance.ConclusionRemoval of TENs after ESIN is a safe procedure with a low complication rate. Technically inaccurate TEN implantation makes removal more difficult and complicated. To prevent an untimely removal and patient discomfort, nail ends must be exactly positioned and cut. Intraoperative complications may be minimized with removal of TENs before signs of overgrowth.EvidenceLevel III, retrospective.

The advent of elastic stable intramedullary nailing for the treatment of long bone fractures in skeletally immature patients

Introduction Management of pediatric long bones fractures is a complex and rapidly evolving field. Traditionally, casting and conservative techniques played a key-role in the management of fractures in skeletally immature patients. However, the surgical approach has evolved steadily over the past four decades or so and increasing evidence has been published supporting the advantages of fixation techniques over conservative methods. The purpose of this narrative review is to outline how innovations in orthopedic surgery have changed the rationale of treating long bones fractures in children and adolescents with focus on surgical techniques, particularly elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN). Material and methods We aimed to describe the main trends in pediatric long bones fractures management and to identify its specificities and difficulties as well as the best standard of care. Results The introduction of ESIN has profoundly influenced the management of pediatric upper and lower extremity fractures. Overall, in comparison to conservative techniques, advantages of ESIN include minimally invasiveness, short hospital stay, primary bone union, early mobilization and progressive weight bearing, and good outcome with low complication rate. Moreover, the flexible nail can be used as a closed reduction tool itself. Conclusions Irrespective of the technique performed, the key-concepts remain 1) the proper understanding of the injury to treat; 2) the identification the main characteristics of the patient; 3) the pros and cons of each technique; and 4) the potential complications.

Use of flexible nails in children diaphyseal fractures. Five questions and answers

Introduction More than 40 years after the launch of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) as a golden standard of the treatment of some fractures in children and adolescents. Material and methods This review is based on answers to five essential questions: The position of ESIN compared with other methods of treatment; The choice of the implants; The indications for ESIN today; How to avoid complications as much as possible? Do we remove the implants or not? Results The aspects of biomechanics, design, indications for ESIN in comparison to other treatment, surgical techniques depending on fractured bones, complications are presented in the article. Conclusion ESIN is an excellent method to fix long bone fractures in children and adolescents. Top one is definitively the fractures of both bones of the forearm, then the diaphyseal fractures of the femur and the tibia before the age to be eligible for a locking nail. However, some unstable fractures cannot be treated conservatively or with a locking nail, and an ESIN remains unstable. In these cases, we are allowed to propose to add an external fixator for 4 to 6 weeks, waiting for a good stabilisation of the fracture.

Lengthening of the ulna by callotasis in children with multiple hereditary exostoses: comparison of methods with and without internal fixation.

PurposeThe goal of this retrospective study was to compare the gradual lengthening of the ulna in children with multiple hereditary exostoses with and without an elastic intramedullary nail.MethodsBetween 1998 to 2018, the ulna was lengthened in 28 forearms in 21 patients (aged 7.1 to 16.6 years) using a monolateral external fixator when relative ulnar shortening exceeded 15 mm. In total, 16 forearms were lengthened with the external fixator (group I) and 12 forearms with the addition of an intramedullary elastic nail (group II). Subjective assessment of function, range of movement (ROM) of the wrist and elbow and complications were compared. Ulnar shortening, radial head dislocation, radial articular angle (RAA) and percentage of carpal slip and radial bowing were followed radiographically. The difference between the groups has been evaluated statistically.ResultsThe function of the extremity improved partially in 81% of patients in group I and in 83% of patients in group II. ROM was not improved except for radial deviation. Radial head position did not change. The values in group II in comparison with group I are higher for gain of length and lower for bone lengthening index and for bone healing index. Carpal slip decreased insignificantly. The RAA and radial bowing decreased, the comparison of values between groups and age under and over ten years were not statistically significant. Complications were more common in group I. No permanent complications were noted.ConclusionThe addition of an intramedullary nail during the gradual ulnar lengthening improves the gain, bone healing index and rate of complications.Level of EvidenceIII.

Finite element analysis of different intramedullary fixation methods for the treatment of senile pubic ramus fractures

To evaluate the biomechanical stability of elastic intramedullary nail in the treatment of pubic ramus fractures by finite element analysis, and to compare the stability of elastic intramedullary nail with cannulated screw intramedullary fixation. The CT data of the pelvis of a volunteer were selected, and the three-dimensional model of the pelvis was reconstructed by reverse engineering software and the fracture of the pubic ramus fractures was simulated by osteotomy. The hollow nail model, single elastic nail model and double elastic nailmodel were assembled with different implants respectively. The mesh division, material assignment loading and other steps were carried out in the ANSYS software, and then the calculation was submitted. The overall displacement of the pelvis of the elastic nail model was smaller than that of the cannulated screw model, in which the double elastic nail model had the smallest overall displacement, but the cannulated screw model had the smallest plant displacement and the single elastic nail model had the largest plant displacement. Although the stress of cannulated screw was small, there was obvious stress concentration, the stress of elastic nail was large, but there was no obvious stress concentration, especially the stress distribution of double elastic nail was more uniform and the overall stress of pelvis was the smallest. All the three fixation methods can effectively improve the stability of the anterior ring of the pelvis. Among them, there is no significant difference in the overall biomechanical propertiesof hollow nail fixation and double elastic nail fixation, which is better than that of single elastic nail fixation. Elastic nail fixation has the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and good biomechanical stability, so it can be used as a better surgical method for the treatment of pubic ramus fractures.

How Shall We Proceed After Inserting an Unsterile Device for Fracture Fixation: ReTENing or Retaining? A Case Report

Background: Limited information is available on how to properly manage to implant nonsterile devices in the medical literature. To the best of our knowledge, there is no guideline for managing nonsterile medical devices implanted inadvertently. Case Presentation: A 3.5-year-old boy was operated on because of femur fracture malunion. After the completion of the operation and discharging the patient, we were informed that the nail has not been sterilized. The parents were immediately informed about the complication and the patient was re-admitted to the hospital. The situation and its complication were thoroughly discussed with the family. By active involvement of the parents, infectious specialist, and the orthopedic surgeon, a shared decision was made to treat the complication. The patient was closely observed. In a radiograph obtained at the 4th week after the index surgery, the sign of callus formation was observed. At this time, we decided to remove the Titanium Elastic Nail (TEN) and continue casting for another two weeks. Conclusion: The primary “take-away” lesson of this case report is that honest disclosure of our mistake facilitated the additional necessary treatment. One single case is not enough for making a recommendation or offer a guideline for this kind of error during or after an orthopedic procedure; however, this case presents a successful method. Although the consequences of infection could be dire, it is prudent to take “not-to-harm” as the first step in benefiting.

Management of Open Tibial Shaft Fractures in Children with Intramedullary Elastic Nail

Management of Open Tibial Shaft Fractures in Children with Intramedullary Elastic Nail

Prospective study of management of fracture midshaft clavicle with titanium elastic nailing system (Tens)

Background: Midclavicular fracture are most common type of clavicular fracture and there are recent trend to Fixtion of this factures. this is prospective study to evaluate the result of tens in midclavicular fractures. Material and Methods: Study of 33 (23 male & 10 female) consecutive patient of midclavicular fracture treated by tens and follow up done for radiological and functional evaluation at 4, 8,12, 16 weeks. Result: The average follow up of 13 weeks and union achieved in all 33 cases. length of incision, hospital stay, blood loss, operation time were less significant. there medial Protusion of nail in 4 patient that requires medial trimming of nail, one case of open reduction was got infected treated by early implant removal. no other significant complication were observed. Conclusion: In our hand tens provide good restoration of Clavivular length and allow early mobilization of extremity to got normal range of movements also good cosmetic appearance.

上腕骨遠位骨幹部骨折に対しTitanium Elastic Nailによる骨接合術を行った2例

上腕骨遠位骨幹部骨折に対しTitanium Elastic Nailによる骨接合術を行った2例

Surgical management of midshaft clavicle fracture by titanium elastic nailing system

Introduction: Midclavicular fractures accounts for about 76% of all clavicular fractures and are common clinically. Recent studies have revealed a previously unrecognized incidence of non-union and malunion after conservative treatment of more severe midclavicular fractures. Our aim was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of midclavicular fractures treated with titanium elastic nails. Methods: A hospital based prospective study conducted between April 2018 to April 2020 at VIMS bellary. 30 patients with displaced midshaft clavicle fracture between 18 to 50 years were assessed clinically and confirmed radiologically were operated with intramedullary nailing with titanium elastic nail (TEN). Mean operative time, postoperative complications, duration of union was recorded. The outcomes were evaluated with radiographic assessment and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score. Results: Closed operation with TENS was undertaken in 28 cases, and mini open technique was performed in 2 cases. Satisfactory reduction was achieved in all patients, who were followed up for a mean of 10 months. The mean union time was 11.2 weeks. TENS led to a significantly shorter time to union, especially for simple fractures. In TENS group, all patients got fracture union, of which 4 cases had medial skin irritation due to implant prominence. No severe complication occurred in any patient. TENS removal done at 10 months after surgery, no re-fracture and non union was found in any our patient. Average DASH score was 3.0023. Conclusion: Intramedullary fixation with TENS might be a effective and safe treatment for displaced midshaft clavicular fractures with few complications, satisfactory clinical therapeutic effects, good functional recovery and cosmetic appearance. Keyowords: Displaced midshaft clavicular fractures; Minimally invasive treatment; Titanium elastic nail; DASH score.

Leg-length discrepancy and associated risk factors after paediatric femur shaft fracture: a multicentre study.

PurposeThis study was performed to investigate leg-length discrepancy (LLD) and associated risk factors after paediatric femur shaft fractures.MethodsA total of 72 consecutive patients under 13 years old (mean age 6.7 years; 48 boys, 24 girls) with unilateral femur shaft fracture, and a minimum follow-up of 18 months, were included. The amount of LLD was calculated by subtracting the length of the uninjured from that of the injured limb. Risk factors for an LLD ≥ 1 cm and ≥ 2 cm were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression analysis.ResultsHip spica casting, titanium elastic nailing and plating were performed on 22, 40 and ten patients, respectively. The mean LLD was 7.8 mm (sd 8.8) and 29 (40.3%) had a LLD of ≥ 1 cm, while nine (12.5%) had a LLD of ≥ 2 cm. There were significant differences in fracture stability (p = 0.005) and treatment methods (p = 0.011) between patients with LLD < 1 cm and ≥ 1 cm. There were significant differences in fracture site shortening (p < 0.001) and LLD (p < 0.001) between patients with length-stable and length-unstable fractures. Fracture stability was the only factor associated with LLD ≥ 1 cm (odds ratio of 4.0; p = 0.020) in the multivariable analysis.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that fracture stability was significantly associated with LLD after paediatric femur shaft fractures. Therefore, the surgeon should consider the possibility of LLD after length-stable femur shaft fracture in children.Level of EvidencePrognostic level III

The elastic stable intramedullary nails as an alternative treatment for adult humeral shaft fractures.

Plate and locked intramedullary nailing for humeral fractures are golden standard procedure, but the humerus is a nonweight-bearing bone and can tolerate a larger range of acceptable alignment. We believe the elastic stable intramedullary nails (ESINs) can provide enough relative stability for humeral shaft fractures in certain adult patients. There are four new indications for using ESINs: (1) patient could not tolerate a sugar-tong splint but was a high risk for general anesthesia, (2) intramedullary canal narrowing (<7 mm), (3) long spiral or oblique fracture over the metadiaphyseal junction, and (4) obesity. All patients received retrograde fixation with two titanium elastic nails, except for one patient with a long spiral fracture over the proximal metadiaphysis. Patients had routine follow-up plain radiographs until bone union, and we evaluated functional results of patients by Mayo Elbow Performance Score and asked to complete Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score at the last outpatient clinic visit. A total of 16 patients with a mean age of 54.4 years were included. The mean follow-up time was 14 ± 2.5 months, and the average time to bone union was 16 ± 4.3 weeks. There were no wound infections, loss of reduction, fracture nonunion, implant failure, or skin irritation expect for one nail back-out because of osteoporosis. We have reported good results using ESINs for the displaced fractures of the humerus in the four indication adults who would not be able to tolerate plate fixation or intramedullary nailing. The ESINs fixation method is a simple procedure that provides a small incision, minimal blood loss, short surgical time, and relative stability fixation.

Efficacy of the \u201cEiffel tower\u201d double titanium elastic nailing in combined management of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: preliminary outcomes of 17 cases with review of literature

BackgroundDifficulty in obtaining union, recurrent fractures, and residual deformities remain the problems challenging the management of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT). We applied the “Eiffel Tower” double titanium elastic nails (TENs) in the existing combined approach, which takes advantages of TEN’s mechanical stability with the protection against refracture, Ilizarov’s high fusion rate with alignment control and the biologic environment provided by bone grafting for bony union. The results of this procedure are presented and discussed.MethodsSeventeen patients with CPT treated by combined surgery including pseudarthrosis resection, the “Eiffel Tower” double TENs technique, autogenous iliac bone grafting, and Ilizarov fixation between 2013 and 2019 were retrospectively investigated. Signs of bone union, limb length discrepancy (LLD), rate of refracture, and degree of residual deformities were reviewed. The AOFAS Ankle Hindfoot scale and measurement of ankle motion were used to evaluate ankle function. The mean follow-up time was 40.5 (11 to 91) months.ResultsThe mean age at index surgery was 6.2 (2.5 to 15) years. Union of the pseudarthrosis was achieved in 100% of cases. Among them, 15 (88.2%) patients obtained union of the pseudarthrosis on the first attempt (primary union). The average time to primary union was 3.8 (2 to 6) months. The rest 2 cases achieved union after additional surgeries (secondary union). In terms of complications, refracture occurred in 2 patients (11.8%) and 4 patients (23.5%) developed pin infection. The mean limb length discrepancy at the final follow up was 33.4 (6–141) mm. The average AOFAS score improved from 38.2 (27 to 51) pre-operatively to 77 (63 to 87) post-operatively (p < 0.01).ConclusionsThe “Eiffel Tower” double TENs technique is an ideal intramedullary fixation method in the surgical treatment of CPT. The combination of TENs technique with bone grafting and Ilizarov fixation has the advantages of early bone union, less injury on metaphysis, and early functional recovery.Level of evidenceLevel IV.

Successful results obtained in the treatment of adolescent forearm fractures with locked intramedullary nailing

PurposeIn the surgical treatment of paediatric forearm fractures, plate-screw and titanium elastic nails are used. During the transformation of ligamento-osseous structures from adolescence form into adult form, more stable fixation is required. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of locked intramedullary nail fixation in adolescent forearm fractures. MethodsA retrospective examination was made on 36 adolescent patients who underwent surgery with locked intramedullary nail fixation due to a forearm fracture. The included patients were in the adolescent age group (12–17 years), did not meet conservative follow-up criteria and had unstable fractures (>10° angulation and <50% cortex continuity after plaster casting). Patients were excluded from the study if they were aged >18 years or <12 years, had Gustilo-Anderson type 2/3 open fractures, multi-trauma, history of physeal injuries or could not be contacted during follow-up. Patients’ age, gender, body mass index, affected side, and the pronation and supination values during follow-up were noted. Functional evaluation of the patients was performed with disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score and the surgical outcomes were evaluated according to the Price criteria. The time to union, infection during follow-up, re-fracture and vascular nerve damage were also examined. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 Windows package program software. ResultsThe patients comprised 30 males and 6 females (ratio, 5:1) with a mean age of (14.7 ± 2.1) years (range, 12–18 years). According to the Price criteria, the results of 33 patients were excellent, 3 were good and there were no moderate or poor cases. The mean disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score was 11.2 ± 6.1 (range, 4–28). The mean time to union was (8.7 ± 2.2) weeks (range, 6–14 weeks), while patients aged >15 years had prolonged time to union ([11.1 ± 1.8] weeks). There were no non-unions, re-fractures or infections. No complications were observed during implant removal. None of the patients had sensorial radial nerve injury or tendon damage. ConclusionThe locked intramedullary nailing technique, which is minimally invasive and provides biological fixation, was found to be successful and safe in the treatment of adolescent forearm fractures.