Comparative Study Between Single-limb Versus One-and-a-Half Hip Spica Cast in Fracture Femur in Young Children

Femoral fractures account for ∼1% to 2% of all pediatric bone injuries and are a common occurrence in children. The conservative approach, employing either a single or one-and-a-half spica casts, has been traditionally favored, yielding satisfactory outcomes in select cases. This study aims to compare both procedures regarding functional and radiologic outcomes, complications, and parents' satisfaction.

In this randomized controlled trial, we enrolled 84 pediatric patients, aged between 2 and 6 years, presenting with femoral fractures. Participants were randomly allocated into 2 groups; one receiving single-limb spica cast fixation (n=42) and the other receiving one-and-a-half spica cast fixation (n=42). We assessed postprocedural functional and radiologic outcomes. Other evaluations focused on parental ease in maintaining hygiene for the casted child, the child's mobility capabilities including standing and crawling, and the incidence of skin complications.

No significant variance was observed between the 2 groups concerning the time to bone union, and the overall complication rates. Parental satisfaction was notably higher in the single-limb spica group, particularly regarding the ease of maintaining hygiene for the casted child and the child's mobility while encased in the cast ( P <0.001). Furthermore, a significant correlation was identified between the one-and-a-half spica application and the increased occurrence of skin pressure ulcers ( P <0.001).

Both single-limb and one-and-a-half spica cast applications demonstrated comparable results in functional and radiologic outcomes, as well as in complication rates. However, parents favored the single-limb method due to its facilitation of a more manageable lifestyle for both the child and their parents. These considerations suggest that the single-limb hip spica cast fixation may be preferable in managing pediatric femoral fractures.

Level II.