Prospective Study on Tension Band Plating: Most Patients are Not Returning to Normal Activities 1 Month Following...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Surgical outcomes

Background:

• Tension band plating is a common technique for temporary hemiepiphysiodesis to correct lower limb angular deformities.
• While considered minimally invasive, anecdotal reports suggest higher-than-expected patient pain levels post-procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate postoperative pain and activity levels in pediatric patients undergoing tension band plating for lower extremity deformities.
• To provide a clearer understanding of recovery timelines and patient-reported outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Prospective enrollment of pediatric patients (≤16 years) with lower extremity angular deformities or limb length inequality across two institutions.
• Postoperative pain and activity levels assessed using FACES Pain Scale and questionnaires at 1 and 3 months.
• Study included patients who completed the 1-month survey.

Main Results:

• At 1 month post-surgery, 38% of patients were still taking pain medication, and 65% had not returned to their prior activity level.
• Among athletes, 59% had not fully returned to sports by 1 month.
• Significant decrease in pain medication use and pain levels observed between 1 week and 1 month postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• A significant portion of pediatric patients experience persistent pain and activity limitations for at least one month after tension band plating.
• Counseling regarding potential prolonged recovery, including pain and activity restrictions, is crucial for patients and parents.