A prospective study on the use of percutaneous titanium elastic nails for paediatric femoral shaft fractures

Background: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of using percutaneous titanium elastic nail (TEN) fixation in pediatric patients with femoral shaft fractures. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on pediatric patients presenting with femoral shaft fractures between the ages of 6 to 14 years. Patients were treated with percutaneous titanium elastic nails and followed up for a minimum of 12 months. The primary outcomes assessed included fracture union time, functional outcome, and complications related to the procedure. Results: A total of 28 pediatric patients with femoral shaft fractures were enrolled in the study. The patients had a mean age of 10.3 years, and the average time for fracture union was 10.5 weeks. Functional outcomes assessed using Flynn’s criteria scoring systems demonstrated excellent results in 67.8% of patients. Complications such as shortening (1 patient), superficial infection (1 patient), and skin irritation at entry site (2 patients) were observed. However, these complications were managed successfully with appropriate interventions. Conclusions: Percutaneous titanium elastic nail fixation is an effective and safe treatment option for pediatric femoral shaft fractures, offering early mobilization, minimal soft tissue disruption, and favorable functional outcomes. Despite some complications, the overall success rate of the procedure underscores its suitability for managing femoral shaft fractures in pediatric patients. Further studies involving larger sample sizes and follow-up periods is necessary to confirm these findings and refine treatment protocols.