Leg length discrepancy after internal fixation of femoral shaft fractures in children

Abstract EN

-Objective : To evaluate objectively the leg length discrepancy following internal fixation of femoral shaft fracture in children and its clinical significance.

Study Design : Twenty four children who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of their femoral diaphysis fracture during an eight year period (1988-1996) were reviewed.

Computer tomographic scanogram was used to measure the skeletal length of both femur and tiba on both sides.

At least one year after fixation, the measurements were taken to evaluate leg length discrepancies and their clinical significance.

Results: In 22 (91.7 %) children the mean over growth of the operated femur was 0.7cm (Range 0.1-1.3cm).

The mean increase in tibial length was 0.25cm on the same side in 13 (54.2 %) children.

In two children (8.3 %) shortening of the operated femur was noted.

These two children also had tibial shortening on the same side