BACKGROUND: We performed a retrospective case study of 28 consecutive severely displaced radial neck fractures (Judet types III and IV) in children treated with elastic stable intramedullary nailing using the Metaizeau technique. METHODS: We reviewed all preoperative radiographs and classified the injuries according to Judet. All patients were asked to return for later assessment. They underwent physical examination; radiographs were taken; and they were asked for subjective assessment. An evaluation of clinical results was performed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). RESULTS: According to Judet classification there were 13 type III and 15 type IV fractures. Using the MEPS, excellent results were achieved in 23 cases (82%) and good results in 5 cases (18%). The average MEPS was 97 points. Five patients complained of mild pain. Three malunions were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Elastic stable intramedullary nailing is a minimally invasive technique, allowing stable fixation and providing excellent to good outcomes with a low complication rate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: We performed a retrospective level 4 study of case series.
BACKGROUND: We performed a retrospective case study of 28 consecutive severely displaced radial neck fractures (Judet types III and IV) in children treated with elastic stable intramedullary nailing using the Metaizeau technique. METHODS: We reviewed all preoperative radiographs and classified the injuries according to Judet. All patients were asked to return for later assessment. They underwent physical examination; radiographs were taken; and they were asked for subjective assessment. An evaluation of clinical results was performed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). RESULTS: According to Judet classification there were 13 type III and 15 type IV fractures. Using the MEPS, excellent results were achieved in 23 cases (82%) and good results in 5 cases (18%). The average MEPS was 97 points. Five patients complained of mild pain. Three malunions were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Elastic stable intramedullary nailing is a minimally invasive technique, allowing stable fixation and providing excellent to good outcomes with a low complication rate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: We performed a retrospective level 4 study of case series.
Authors: Francesco Falciglia; Marco Giordano; Angelo G Aulisa; Antonio Di Lazzaro; Vincenzo Guzzanti Journal: J Pediatr Orthop Date: 2014-12 Impact factor: 2.324