A Study of Titanium Elastic Nailing in Forearm Fractures in Elderly Patients
Titanium nailing for elderly forearm fracture
Abstract
Introduction:
As operative techniques and the quality of implants are improving, surgical management of diaphyseal fractures of forearm bones in elderly patients is gaining widespread acceptance. A combination of a better understanding of the fractures, preoperative antibiotics, properly designed newer implants, minimal soft tissue handling techniques, and C-Arm guidance have made surgical fixation practical and safe while treating these fractures. Titanium elastic nailing system (TENS) provides flexural, axial, translational, and adequate amounts of rotational stability.
Aim and objectives:
The treatment of diaphyseal forearm bone fracture with TENS nail aims to regain length, axial, and adequate rotational stability without extensive soft tissue injury, neurovascular compromise, and periosteal stripping. Objective of this study is to analyze the demographic distribution, union rates, functional outcomes, cosmetic outcomes, complications, and functional rehabilitation of the upper limb.
Methods:
Elderly patients admitted to the Department of Orthopedics at SRG Hospital and Medical College, Jhalawar with BBFA diaphyseal fractures during the period from JUNE 2019 TO MAY 2023 were selected and evaluated clinically and radiologically. We followed all those patients for an average of 6 months. The outcome was assessed using the Grace-Eversmann scoring system. We followed up with all 25 patients and evaluated them every 2 weeks until the fracture unites.
Results:
Our study consisted of 25 patients, 14 males, and 11 females. The mean age of distribution was 65 years. The average time to bone union was 12 (8–20) weeks, and the average surgery time was 35 (15–60) minutes. There was a superficial infection in 1 case. No one had a deep infection, mal-union, non-union, fracture, nail migration, compartment syndrome, nerve palsy, synostosis, or rupture of any tendon. Most patients had a full range of Elbow and Wrist Movements after the union.
Conclusion:
Based on our experience and results, we conclude that the titanium elastic nailing technique is a better method for the treatment of displaced BBFA diaphyseal fractures in elderly patients also. It is easy, cheap, convenient, and gives elastic mobility promoting a rapid union of fractures and stability which is ideal for early mobilization. It provides a lower complication rate, shorter surgery time, good cosmetic outcome, and easy implant removal when compared to other methods of treatment.
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| Files | ||
| Issue | Vol 10 No 2 (2024) | |
| Section | Research Articles | |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.18502/jost.v10i2.15539 | |
| Keywords | ||
| elderly forearm fixation fracture | ||
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