To study the functional outcome of femoral and tibial shaft fractures in children treated by tens nail

Abstract

Objectives: The main objective of the study was to evaluate the functional outcome of fracture of shaft of femur and tibia in children treated by TEN/ESIN system. Methodology: The present study was an observational clinical study which included cases with the diagnosis of femoral and tibial fractures admitted to the Orthopaedics Department of Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore. Study included a total of 30 subjects with the age between 5–16 years. Detailed history, clinical examination was done, and associated injuries were noted. Results: The present study involved a total of 30 patients with femoral and tibial shaft fractures in children treated by TENs nail. Maximum numbers of the patients were seen in the age group of 6–10 years and the mean age of the study was 9.16 ±3.62 years. On a whole, males were predominated when compared to females and showed the greater incidence of tibial fractures which accounts for 66.7%. The main cause for the fractures among children was Road Traffic Accident (RTA), which accounts for greater percentage of 67.7% followed by self-fall which accounts for 22.6%. Among the side affected, greater numbers of children were affected with left tibia. More number of patients was operated with nail size 3.5 mm with 50%, followed by nail size of 3 mm with 30%. The total hospital stay in days in the study was 8.26±2.38 and the total time for union in weeks in the study was 8.52±1.03. Excellent outcomes were seen with tibial fracture (80%) and femur fracture (90%) and study subjects showed least (19.3%) complications. Conclusion: TENs nail is an existing successful treatment option for the fractures of shaft of femur and tibia in children. TENS nailing is an uncomplicated, consistent and rapid method which is associated with positive safety and efficacy outcomes.