Comparative Outcomes of Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing vs. Plate Fixation in Pediatric Femoral Shaft

Omar Al-Doori1, Mohammad Abdalla2, Sail Zaid Alkhaion3

  • 1Aneurin Bevan University Health Board Headquarters, St Cadoc's Hospital, Lodge Road, Caerleon, Newport, Wales.

Insights

Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing (ESIN) is preferred for pediatric femoral shaft fractures in children aged 5-10. This method offers shorter operative times and faster weight-bearing compared to plate fixation.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic surgery
  • Pediatric orthopedics
  • Trauma surgery

Background:

  • Pediatric femoral fractures are common, necessitating effective treatment strategies.
  • Treatment choice for pediatric diaphyseal femoral fractures varies by age.
  • This study focuses on children aged 5-10 years.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy of Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing (ESIN) versus plate fixation.
  • To evaluate outcomes for transverse diaphyseal femoral fractures in pediatric patients.
  • To determine the optimal surgical approach for this demographic.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 32 children with closed transverse diaphyseal femoral fractures.
  • Patients divided into two groups: 16 treated with ESIN and 16 with plate fixation.
  • Exclusion criteria included comminuted, open, or pathological fractures.

Main Results:

  • ESIN group (16 patients) showed shorter operative times (58.4 min) and faster union (8.8 weeks) than plate fixation (76.3 min, 11.9 weeks).
  • Significantly less blood loss observed with ESIN (32.8 ml) compared to plate fixation (205.0 ml).
  • No significant differences in wound healing or leg length discrepancy between groups.

Conclusions:

  • Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing (ESIN) is preferable to plate fixation for pediatric femoral shaft fractures in children aged 5-10.
  • ESIN offers advantages in operative time and weight-bearing commencement.
  • Plate fixation may be suitable in specific clinical situations; further studies are recommended.
Abstract