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

ABSTRACT

The aim of the study is to assess the outcome of treating pediatric forearm fractures with flexible intramedullary nails. Orthopedic Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Kingdom of Bahrain. Retrospective study. 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. 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. Nine pediatric patients had closed forearm fracture reduction and twelve patients needed mini incision; there were few minor complications and the outcome was satisfactory