Flexible intramedullary fixation of pediatric forearm fractures : report on twenty-one patients

Abstract EN

Objective : The aim of the study is to assess the outcome of treating pediatric forearm fractures with flexible intramedullary nails.

Setting : Orthopedic Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Design : Retrospective study.

Method : Between May 2004 and April 2006, twenty one pediatric patients with displaced forearm fractures were treated with flexible intramedullary nails at SMC.

The study group included 19 boys and 2 girls aged 6 and 14 years (mean 9.3).

Closed reduction and percutaneous introduction of nails was tried in all patients; failure to do so, a mini incision was performed to facilitate the procedure.

Result : Closed reduction and percutaneous introduction of the nails was possible in 9 patients.

In 8 patients, a mini incision was needed for either the radius or the ulna.

In 4 patients, both the radius and ulna needed exposure through mini incision.

The patients were followed-up for a period between 6.7 to 35.7 weeks (mean 18.7 weeks).

All fractures were united in acceptable alignment and nails were removed at a mean interval of 18.7 weeks.

Conclusion : Nine pediatric patients had closed forearm fracture reduction and twelve patients needed mini incision; there were few minor complications and the outcome was satisfactory.