Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing in Forearm Shaft Fractures in Children: 85 Cases

The results of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) of 85 forearm fractures in children are reported. A single curved nail was inserted into each forearm bone with closed reduction. Immediate mobilization was allowed postoperatively. In a 3 year 6 month follow-up of 76 patients, 92% had excellent results with a full range of movement. There were neither nonunions nor infections. ESIN is recommended in the treatment of displaced forearm fractures in children older than 10 years of age, and in younger children when conservative treatment fails.