Ra. Mileski et al., AVASCULAR NECROSIS OF THE FEMORAL-HEAD AFTER CLOSED INTRAMEDULLARY SHORTENING IN AN ADOLESCENT, Journal of pediatric orthopedics, 15(1), 1995, pp. 24-26
Closed intramedullary shortening has become a popular treatment method
for limb-length inequality in adolescents. An important, potentially
devastating complication of closed intramedullary fixation only recent
ly described is avascular necrosis of the femoral head. We believe alt
ernative treatment options must be considered to avoid this irreversib
le and catastrophic complication. A larger series may define the inher
ent risks of this complication and help determine the ideal treatment
for femoral shortening and stabilization in the adolescent.