[Elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) in pediatric forearm shaft fractures: intraoperative image intensifier times].

AIM: Elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN)is the therapy of choice in pediatric forearm shaft fractures. It requires increased intraoperative image intensifier times and radiation load.

METHOD: We performed a retrospective analysis of 78 operative procedures from a five-year period. In 16 cases the image intensifier times of the distinct steps of the operation were investigated prospectively.

RESULTS

Average duration of the surgical procedure was 36.9 (18-144) minutes. Average radiation time was 59.5 (8-222) seconds. In educational operations, the duration of surgery was significantly longer than in procedures performed by experienced surgeons, but radiation times only were increased tendentially. In those procedures investigated prospectively, 53.1% of the image intensifier time was used for fracture passage.

CONCLUSION

In ESIN of forearm shaft fractures,intraoperative image intensifier times of less than 2 minutes can be expected. Low intraoperative radiation times are a mark of quality. They serve for radiation protection of the patients, surgeons and OT staff.