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Statically locked IM nail safe for use in children with subtrochanteric femur fracture
Use of a statically locked lateral entry intramedullary nail in children with subtrochanteric femur fractures was found to be effective, with satisfactory outcomes and few complications and risks, according to study results.
Researchers retrospectively reviewed 10 cases of pediatric patients with subtrochanteric fracture fixed with an intramedullary (IM) locked nail, following patients until full fracture consolidation or until implant removal. The researchers collected data on time to full weight bearing, return to full activity, residual pain, any form of gait abnormality and any other complication from follow-up visits.
Results showed most of the fractures occurred secondary to high-energy trauma. Patients started partial weight bearing at 24 days and full weight bearing at 66 days. Implants were removed, on average, by 11 months after implantation, according to the researchers.
The researchers found no intraoperative or major complications during the postoperative period recorded after removal. Overall, two patients presented with a longer limb on the affected side, and two patients presented with asymptomatic grade I heterotopic ossification. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosures: Herrera-Soto received royalties from and is on the speakers bureau for Biomet and Biomet Spine. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.