Rigid Intramedullary Nailing of Femoral Shaft Fractures in Skeletally Immature Patients Using a Lateral Trochanteric

Elliott J Kim1, Samuel N Crosby1, Gregory A Mencio1

  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, 4202 DOT, 2200 Children's Way, Nashville, TN 37232-9565. E-mail address for J.E. Martus: jeff.martus@vanderbilt.edu.

Insights

This study details rigid intramedullary nailing with trochanteric entry for pediatric femoral shaft fractures. This technique offers effective internal fixation for skeletally immature patients.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Trauma Surgery

Background:

  • Femoral shaft fractures are common in children and adolescents.
  • Internal fixation is a standard treatment for these fractures.
  • Rigid intramedullary nailing provides a stable construct for fracture healing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the technique of rigid intramedullary nailing using a trochanteric entry for femoral shaft fractures in skeletally immature patients.
  • To outline the key steps and considerations for successful surgical intervention.
  • To review outcomes in a cohort of pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 241 skeletally immature patients with 246 femoral shaft fractures.
  • Surgical technique involves trochanteric entry rigid intramedullary nailing.
  • Detailed description of surgical steps including preparation, incision, guidewire placement, reaming, nail insertion, and interlocking screw fixation.

Main Results:

  • A cohort of 246 femoral shaft fractures was treated.
  • Patients were skeletally immature.
  • The study reviewed indications, contraindications, pitfalls, and challenges associated with the procedure.

Conclusions:

  • Rigid intramedullary nailing with trochanteric entry is a viable surgical option for femoral shaft fractures in older children and adolescents.
  • Meticulous surgical technique and preparation are crucial for minimizing complications.
  • Further studies may be warranted to evaluate long-term outcomes and compare with other fixation methods.
Abstract

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