Outcomes assessment of pediatric both-bone forearm fractures treated operatively.

Abstract

This study assessed the outcome of pediatric both-bone forearm fractures treated with operative intervention. A retrospective review was conducted of 31 patients treated over a 40-month period. Fifteen patients were treated with flexible intramedullary nailing and 16 treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Average patient age was 11 years (range: 3.8-17.9 years). Operative indications included 2 open fractures and 29 fractures with unacceptable reductions. The intramedullary nailing group had 14 excellent results and 1 good result. The open reduction internal fixation group had 15 excellent results and 1 good result. Overall, 29 (93.5%) of 31 patients had excellent results. Two minor complications occurred in the intramedullary nailing group and none in the open reduction internal fixation group. Although operative intervention in pediatric both-bone forearm fractures is rarely indicated, when necessary, good results can be expected.