What are the surgical treatments for femoral fractures in children?

The surgical treatment methods for pediatric femoral fractures mainly include closed reduction and internal fixation, elastic intramedullary nail fixation, and plate and screw fixation. These methods are selected according to the fracture type and the age of the child.

1 Closed reduction and internal fixation uses external manipulation to reduce the fracture ends without cutting the skin, using Kirschner wires or external fixators for fixation. This method is suitable for children with small fracture displacement and relatively easy reduction. This method is less invasive, but requires precise operation under image guidance to ensure good reduction.

2 Elastic intramedullary nail fixation is commonly used for pediatric diaphyseal fractures. Stable fixation is achieved by implanting elastic nails in the medullary cavity, which has little interference with the growth plate. This technology has a small incision and fast recovery, but it is necessary to select an intramedullary nail of appropriate diameter, and regular follow-up is required after surgery to confirm the healing of the fracture.

3. Plate and screw internal fixation is suitable for comminuted fractures or complex fractures. It can provide strong internal fixation by performing plate fixation after open reduction. The operation needs to expose the fracture ends, which is relatively traumatic, but it can ensure the precise alignment of the fracture ends, and has good postoperative stability, which is conducive to early functional training.

The treatment of femoral fractures in children requires comprehensive consideration of the fracture type, age and growth characteristics of the child, and the selection of an appropriate surgical method. After surgery, the child must follow the doctor's instructions for rehabilitation exercises and have regular X-rays to prevent problems such as malformation of the fracture or unequal length of the lower limbs. Parents should cooperate with the doctor to provide postoperative care to help the child recover limb function as soon as possible.