Fixation of open, unstable tuft fractures in toddlers and preschool-aged children using a 25-gauge hypodermic needle

This study aimed to assess the treatment process of open, unstable tuft fractures occurring in toddlers and preschool-aged children treated using a 25-gauge hypodermic needle in the emergency department, and the cosmetic and functional results achieved by this treatment. This retrospective cohort study included a total of 72 patients. Children aged two to six years were included in the study. Van Beek classification was used for the evaluation of nail bed injuries. Cosmetic results were evaluated on the basis of Zook classification whereas functional results were evaluated according to the Buck-Gramko score simplified by Nietosvaara et al. The patient population consisted of 52 men and 20 women. The mean age was 4 ± 1.33 years. The operating time was 19.17 ± 3.66 minutes and the time to union was 46.68 ± 4.84 days. While excellent and good functional results were obtained in 65 (90.2%) of the patients, excellent and very good cosmetic results were obtained in 51 (70.8%) patients. Unless there is an accompanying extremity fracture, unstable pediatric tuft fractures can be successfully fixed with a hypodermic needle in the emergency department. Gentle and precise repair of the nail bed may provide cosmetically and functionally satisfactory results.
Source: Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics B - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Upper Limb Trauma Source Type: research