Abstract:

Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the radiological and functional results of titanium elastic nail (TEN), which was used as a surgical method in pediatric long bone diaphyseal fractures between 5-15 years of age, by comparing it with the clinical features of the patient and the fracture. Methods: In this study, 44 patients (11 girls, 33 boys) aged 5-15 years (mean 9.86 ±2.84) were included. The clinical features of the patient, family satisfaction, evaluation of the fracture according to Flynn Criteria, time to bone union, stay in the hospital, and school absence was examined. Results: TEN was applied mostly to the femur (n;18), tibia (n;14), and forearm (n;12) diaphysis fractures, respectively. Most of the fractures were seen as a result of high energy and closed middle diaphysis, the transverse fracture pattern was the most. Most of the fracture surgeries were performed with the closed method. The family satisfaction of the patients was at a high level. In the evaluation of fractures according to Flynn Criteria, most of the results were excellent, but no poor results were observed. Bone union time was higher in patients aged ten years and older and undergoing open surgery, and less in transverse fracture shape (p<0.05). The time not to attend school was highest in open fracture type, tibia fractures, and open surgery patients (p<0.05). Ulna union time was 13.1 ± 1.8 weeks, which was higher than forearm fractures (p<0.05). The hospital stay was 3.50 ± 0.79 / 4.29 ± 1.54 / 3.33 ± 0.49 days in femur/tibia/forearm fractures, respectively, and was the highest in tibia fractures (p<0.05). Conclusions: TEN is an effective and safe method for long bone diaphyseal fractures in children aged 5-15 years, with low complication rates and positive effects on the patient and the health system.

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