title: Bridge Plating Length-Unstable Pediatric Femoral Shaft Fractures.
abstract: The treatment of pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures, particularly length-unstable fractures, continues to be an area of controversy in patients from age 6 to skeletal maturity. Submuscular bridge plating is an alternative that allows for stable internal fixation while minimizing soft tissue disruption. We describe a surgical technique that has simplified both implantation and removal. This technique provides a stable construct in comminuted and unstable fracture patterns allowing for early mobilization with minimal complications.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH.
authors.forename: Sean A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Sutphen
authors.forename: Allan C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Beebe
authors.forename: Kevin E
authors.initials: KE
authors.lastname: Klingele
mesh_terms: D001860:Bone Plates; D002648:Child; D018483:Diaphyses / Q000293:injuries; D004434:Early Ambulation / Q000379:methods; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D005269:Femur / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011859:Radiography / Q000379:methods; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D016896:Treatment Outcome