Femoral neck fractures in children

ABSTRACT

18 children with fracture of the neck of the femur were the subjects of this study. They were received during the period from 1982 to 1987. According to Ingram classification, there were only Type II and III fractures that are known for a high percentage of complications. Closed reduction and internal fixation by Moore's pins, Kirschner wires or screws was done with additional hip spica for six to ten weeks. Results were, assessed according to Ratliff eleven were good, five fair and two poor. Complications met with were avascular necrosis, non-union, coxa vara, coxa valga, premature epiphyseal fusion, metal failure and backing of the fixing device. The authors feel that some complications were inevitable while others could be reduced if immediate interference was done, by gentle manipulation, accurate reduction, rigid internal fixation without transfixing the epiphyseal plate and plaster immobilization until radiological evidence of union