Intramedullary flexible nail fixation of unstable pediatric tibial diaphyseal fractures

J Pediatr Orthop. 2005 Sep-Oct;25(5):570-6. doi: 10.1097/01.mph.0000165135.38120.ce.

Abstract

Flexible intramedullary nail fixation provides excellent fixation in children with unstable tibial shaft fractures, but few published series demonstrate the results and complications with this technique in children. A retrospective review of 19 patients was performed, as well as a biomechanical analysis of two implant configurations. Outcome measures included union rates, residual deformity, and complications. Union occurred in all cases. Five patients (26%) had complications. None required repeat operation. Two (11%) angular deformities (>/=10 degrees) occurred with the medial C and S construct, versus none with the double C. The C and S construct was more stable to mechanical testing with axial and torsional loading. Flexible intramedullary nail fixation is a straightforward technique that reliably produces good results. While the C and S construct was superior in biomechanical testing, the double C construct is more reliable and straightforward and remains by far the authors' preferred technique.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Bone Nails
  • Child
  • Female
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / adverse effects
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Radiography
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tibial Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Tibial Fractures / physiopathology
  • Tibial Fractures / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome