Intramedullary elastic stable osteosynthesis in treatment of forearm bone shaft fractures in children

Purpose. To analyze the results of using the method of intramedullary elastic stable osteosynthesis in treatment of forearm bone shaft fractures in children. Materials and Methods. 22 children at the age of 4-16 years treated using the method of intramedullary elastic stable osteosynthesis (FIN – flexible intramedullary nailing) in the authors’ clinic during 2012. In 4 cases surgical treatment performed after secondary displacement of fragments in a plaster cast, in other cases intramedullary osteosynthesis was a primary method of treatment. Results. In all cases the authors stated a positive result of treatment: fracture union, recovery of initial range of motion in the joints of the limb operated within first 2-4 weeks after surgery that accompanied by child’s rapid return to the normal daily life, going to school or kindergarten. Among the occurred complications caused by surgical treatment one case of skin perforation with the rod’s free end observed, as well as hematoma formation in the zone of the rod free end and irritation of the radial nerve sensitive branch with the rod’s end in the forearm zone. The implants removed 6 months after surgical treatment, fracture consolidation in proper position achieved with complete functional recovery of the forearm injured in 20 cases. Conclusion. According to the results, FIN method can be recommended for treatment of forearm shaft fractures in children at the age of 5-16 years.