[Pitfalls and complications of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) of femoral fractures in infancy].
BACKGROUND
The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the intra- and postoperative problems as well as the complications of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) of femur fractures in children.


METHODS
47 consecutive children, mean age 6 years, were reviewed clinically and radiologically until hardware removal and after this annually. Mean time of follow up was 37 months.


RESULTS
Intraoperatively one cortex perforation and one displacement of a third fragment occurred. Two correction operations were necessary: In one case due to an implant displacement and in another case due to an unacceptable loss of reduction. There were no infections, non union, implant breakage, refracture or disturbance of growth.


CONCLUSIONS
ESIN is a safe procedure in femoral shaft fractures of children. Most of the problems and complications can be avoided by a careful consideration of the indication and a correct operation technique.
Jubel
A
A
Klinik für Unfall-, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Universität zu Köln. axeljubel@t-online.de
Andermahr
J
J
Prokop
A
A
Bergmann
H
H
Isenberg
J
J
Rehm
K E
KE
D001858:Bone Nails / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D005269:Femur / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D012086:Reoperation; D017211:Treatment Failure; D016896:Treatment Outcome