Journal List > J Korean Soc Fract > v.15(1) > 1077277

Kim, Park, Lee, Kim, Lee, Kim, and Choy: Treatment of Femoral Shaft Fractures with External Fixators in Children

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study was to assess the amount of overgrowth and convenience after external fixation of pediatric femoral fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Followed-up more than 18 months were 20 childrens treated with external fixator for femoral fracture(mean follow-up periods: 25.5 months). Mean age was 7.15 years(range: 4-11 years). End to end apposition was done on the closed reduction. Evaluation of the result was done with five parameters; clinical results, radiological results, parents`satisfaction with questionnaire, hospital fee and complications. RESULTS: Clincal results were not any disability in all cases. No angulation deformity was estimated in all cases, and overgrowth was estimated average 4.8mm (range: -1 ~ 13mm). Answer for questionnaire was revealed satisfactory result. Total hospital fee was average 831 thousand won in external fixator group, and average 289 thousand won in treated group with cast. CONCLUSION: We propose that external fixation in closed femoral shaft fractures of children could be a rational alternative mode of therapy, because it has excellent clinical & radiological results and parents were satisfied with its convenience & final results. Total hospital fee was statistically higher in external fixator group.

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