Elastic intramedullary nail for treatment of extremity fractures in children

ObjectiveTo assess the clinical therapeutic effects of elasticintramedullarynail onextremityfractures in children.MethodsFrom June 2005 to March 2008, 40 children with extremity fractures were treated by elastic intramedullary nail, in whom femoral shaft fractures occurred in 26 cases, tibiofibular fractures in 8 cases, radial capitular fractures in 4 cases, ulnoradial fractures in 2 cases. All patients were treated by closed reduction and elastic intramedullary nailfixation.ResultsAll the fractures gained satisfactory reduction and healing. The average duration needed for fracture healing was 1-2 months. Postoperative follow-up confirmed a sound functional recovery.ConclusionsThe elastic intramedullary nail is a minimally invasive and effective surgical approach for treatment of extremity fractures in children. It allows early functional exercises after operation and secures a satisfactory bone union and functional recovery