نتايج درازمدت درمان شكستگي تنه ران كودكان به روش گچ گيري اوليه

LONG TERM RESULTS OF THE THREATMENT OF FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURES IN CHILDREN BY IMMEDIATE APPLICATION OF HIP SPICA CAST

Background & Aims: Femoral shaft fractures represent approximately 1.6% of all bone injuries in children, cast, traction, external fixator, plating, flexible and rigid TM nails are used in treatment, according to the age and stability of fracture. This study reveals long term results of immediate casting, the prime metod of treatment of femoral shaft fractures in children. Materials & Methods: During two years, 54 cases of femoral shaft fractures in children below 12 years old in Imam Khomeini hospital of Tehran treated by, immediate application of hip spica cast. They were in weekly control for three weeks. Generally, cast removed within two months. Results: 46 cases examined 15 years after fracture. 5 cases had 2 cm shortening of lower limb. There were not any other residual skeleteal deformities. 6 men were in military service and could not be studied. Discussion: Femoral shaft fractures in children with shortening less than 3 cm can be treated with immediate spica cast. Close follow up is advised in order to achieve acceptable results. This method is cost effective and accepted by parents easily.