Advances in the surgical management of pediatric femoral shaft fractures.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To provide an update on surgical methods of pediatric femur fracture treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple studies describe successful results with elastic nail stabilization of pediatric femur fractures. The indications and risk factors for complications are being more clearly defined. Trochanteric entry-locked intramedullary nailing and submuscular bridge plating have also recently been reported to produce excellent outcomes in a high percentage of patients. Older (>11 years) patients, heavier patients and patients with length-unstable fracture patterns may be best treated with locked nailing or plating.

SUMMARY: Pediatric femur fractures can be successfully treated by a number of methods. This review examines the recent literature to provide some guidelines for choosing amongst the options for surgical stabilization.