A meta-analysis of external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails for femoral fractures in children.

A meta-analysis of external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails for femoral fractures in children. Acta Orthop Belg. 2016 Dec;82(4):673-680 Authors: Zhang YT, Jin D, Niu J, Li ZJ, Fu S, Zou ZL Abstract Background : The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the outcomes of external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails for femoral fractures in children between 5 and 15 years of age based on the current evidence. Materials and methods: We searched relevent studies in the following database: Cochrane library, PubMed and EMABASE up to May 2014. All randomized controlled trials, Clinical controlled trials and retrospective controlled studies comparing external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails in femoral fractures of children were included. Data was extracted independently for meta-analysis. Results: Seven trials altogether involving 338 cases of femoral fractures of children treated by external fixation (128 cases) and flexible intramedullary nails (210 cases) were included in the meta-analysis. Results showed that flexible intramedullary nails was superior to external fixation in less time to union , lower postoperative infection rate and refracture rate . It may not increase delayed union, Limb-length discrepancy , pain and bursitis . Both fixations obtained a similar patient satisfaction. conclusion: Flexible intramedullary nail had greater advantages for the treatment of femoral f...
Source: Acta Orthopaedica Belgica - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Acta Orthop Belg Source Type: research