PURPOSE To determine the usefulness of flexible intramedullary fixation in pediatric forearm diaphyseal fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed 22 cases of forearm diaphyseal fractures treated with flexible intramedullary nail and K-wire. The radiographic assessment was based on the time to union, maintenance of reduction and angular deformity. The functional outcome was assessed with the range of motion and complications at last follow up. RESULTS Average length of follow up was 13.9 months with mean age of 10.8 years and the time to union was 5.2 weeks. There were no angular deformity and fuctional results were excellent in all cases. There were 5 cases of soft tissue irritation of nail insertion site as post operative complication which was resolved after nail removal. CONCLUSION Flexible intramedullary for pediatric forearm bone fractures is an effective and safe method which gives a good functional outcome.
The term "floating elbow" refers to concomitant ipsilateral humeral and forearm bone fractures. This type of fractures is relatively rare and has few guidelines for treatment.
Author reviewed 14 cases of these fractures which were treated by open reduction and rigid internal fixation in Pusan National University Hospital from January 1983 to January 1993.
In follow up study, Author obtained that good results in 10 cases(71%) of patient, and fair results in 3 cases of patient.
Author advocate the patient with concomitant ipsilateral humerus and forearm bone fractures should requires open reduction and stable internal fixation of the both humerus and forearm bone, as soon as possible.