External Fixation Of Lower Limb Fractures In Children / 대한정형외과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results and the usefulness of the external fixator for the treatment of the lower limb fractures in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used 22 children fractures of lower limb treated with external fixator. There were 14 isolated femur or tibia fractures, 2 both femur and tibia fractures, 1 bilateral tibial fractures, 5 fractures associated with others, and were 10 open and 16 closed fracture. We assessed the axial alignment and leg-length discrepancy, and the range of motion of the joints and complications. RESULTS: The average union and fixation time were 8.1 and 9.5 weeks. Average of 2.4 degrees of varus or valgus and 3.8 degrees of anterior or posterior angulation were obtained. At follow-up, the range of LLD was -1.3 to +1.5cm. CONCLUSION: External fixator in lower limb fractures of children is useful to open fractures, multiple fractures, and unstable fractures to minimize complications.