Titanium Elastic Nailing System (TENS) for Tibia Fractures in Children: Functional Outcomes and Complications

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Traumatology

Background:

• Closed reduction and casting remain a primary treatment for pediatric tibial fractures.
• Surgical management is increasingly favored for faster recovery and reduced complications.
• Flexible intramedullary nails offer advantages in alignment, rotation, and patient recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of using titanium elastic nails for pediatric tibial fractures.
• To assess complications associated with titanium elastic nail fixation in pediatric tibial fractures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study analyzing pediatric tibial fractures treated with two titanium elastic nails.
• Evaluation of fracture alignment, union time, infection, and limb length discrepancy.
• Assessment of joint mobility and complications such as malunion and delayed union.

Main Results:

• 45 patients (62.2% male, 37.8% female) with an average age of 9.48 years were studied.
• Average fracture healing time was 11.17 weeks.
• Complications included malunion (4.4%), delayed union (8.8%), limb length discrepancy (6.6%), nail prominence/irritation (13.6%), and superficial infection (4.4%).

Conclusions:

• Titanium elastic nail (TENS) fixation is a reliable and effective method for pediatric tibial fractures requiring surgery.
• Potential complications are manageable and avoidable with proper precautions.
• TENS provides a simple, rapid, and effective surgical solution for pediatric tibial fractures.