Locking plate fixation for pediatric femur fractures

Abstract

Background: The use of locking plates for pediatric femur fractures has not been studied. Locking plate applications for fractures associated with comminution, osteopenia, or minimal bone available for purchase have been well studied in the adult trauma population.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of children at our institution treated with a locking plate for a femur fracture. We identified 32 patients treated at an average age of 11 years (6-15 years of age). Locking plates were chosen for comminution in 13 patients, nonmalignant pathologic fracture in 9 patients, fracture location in 7 patients, and osteopenia in 3 patients. All patients were treated with a locking plate and followed up until definitive radiologic union.

Results: There were no intraoperative complications related to this technology. All patients were healed with near-anatomic alignment with the exception of 1 patient who had valgus malalignment of 12 degrees, which was of no clinical concern and required no intervention. Seven patients had the plates removed with no noted complications.

Conclusions: Locking plates are a safe and effective treatment for children and adolescents with femur fractures that may not be amenable to other current means of stabilization.