Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes and complications of external fixation use in the treatment of children with displaced supracondylar femoral fractures..
Methods: In this retrospective study, 14 children (6 boys, 8 girls; mean age = 7.3 years; age range = 3.9 - 10.3 years) who underwent external fixation for the treatment of a displaced supracondylar femoral fracture from 2010 to 2017 were included. Their medical records were reviewed for general information and surgery details. Postoperative information, such as time to radiographic union, time to regain walking ability, Knee Society Scores (KSS) postoperative score, and KSS functional score were collected. Radiographic images were examined for the measurement of leg length discrepancy and valgus deformity.
Results: The mean follow up was 34 (range = 24-50) months. The mean time to radiographic union was 12.3 (range = 10-16) weeks, and the mean time to regain walking ability was 11.8 (range = 11-13) weeks. Leg length discrepancies were all less than 0.8 cm, and valgus deformity was all limited in 10°. The mean KSS postoperative score was 97.5 (range = 93-100), and the mean KSS functional score was 97.1 (range = 90-100). None of the patients exhibited functional deficiency. Neither deep infection nor refracture was detected postoperatively.
Conclusion: External fixation seems to be an acceptable alternative modality for treatingdisplaced supracondylar femoral fractures in children, with favorable clinical and radiological outcomes as well as a low complication rate.
Level of evidence: Level IV, Therapeutic Study.