Ender rod fixation of femoral shaft fractures in children

Ender rod fixation for femoral shaft fractures in children was evaluated in a prospective study at two Level 1 trauma centers. Fifty-seven fractures i n 52 patients were evaluated. Criteria for inclusion in the study included age younger than 14 years, femoral shaft fractures occurring in the middle 3/5, canal size greater than 7 mm, and parental consent. Hip and knee motio n, gait, leg length discrepancy, and rotational asymmetry were evaluated by clinical examination. Standard radiographs were used to measure any residu al angulation. A subset of patients whose injuries occurred more than 12 mo nths previously was evaluated using scanograms. Followup averaged 20 months . There were no delayed unions and all fractures healed within 12 weeks. Cl inically significant leg length discrepancy, malunion, or loss of motion di d not occur. Functional results were excellent and complications were minor . Ender rod fixation of femur fractures in children allows the advantages o f surgical fixation with minimal risk of complications.