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Evaluation of Functional Recovery and Radiological Healing After Elastic Intramedullary Nailing in Pediatric Forearm Fractures: A Retrospective Observational Study


Authors : Dr. Deepak Vyas; Dr. Pradeep Tiwari; Dr. Danish Akhtar

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3b672sa5

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/43p4vx89

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr2463

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : Background: Pediatric forearm fractures are among the most common long bone injuries in children and adolescents. While conservative management remains effective for many cases, unstable and displaced diaphyseal fractures often require surgical stabilization to achieve optimal alignment and functional recovery. Elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) has emerged as a minimally invasive and effective technique that provides stable fixation while preserving periosteal blood supply and promoting early mobilization.  Objective: To evaluate the clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of elastic stable intramedullary nailing in pediatric forearm fractures.  Methods: This study reviews the outcomes of ESIN in pediatric patients with diaphyseal forearm fractures, focusing on fracture union, functional recovery, and complication rates. Evidence from multiple clinical studies was analyzed to assess the effectiveness and safety of the technique. Parameters such as time to union, range of motion, and complication profile were considered in evaluating outcomes.  Results: ESIN demonstrates high rates of fracture union with excellent functional outcomes in the majority of pediatric patients. Most studies report rapid fracture healing, minimal soft tissue disruption, and early return to daily activities. Functional outcomes, including restoration of forearm rotation and strength, are generally satisfactory, with low rates of malunion or nonunion. Complications such as nail irritation, infection, and refracture are relatively uncommon and usually manageable without significant long-term morbidity. Comparative studies have shown ESIN to be superior or equivalent to plating techniques in terms of functional outcome, operative time, and cosmetic results.  Conclusion: Elastic stable intramedullary nailing is a reliable, safe, and minimally invasive method for the management of pediatric forearm fractures. It offers excellent clinical and functional outcomes with a low complication rate, making it a preferred treatment modality for unstable diaphyseal fractures in children.

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  24. How to cite this article: vyas D,tiwari P,akhtar D ,Evaluation of  Functional Recovery and  Radiological Healing After Elastic Intramedullary Nailing in Pediatric Forearm Fractures: A Retrospective Observational Study.

Background: Pediatric forearm fractures are among the most common long bone injuries in children and adolescents. While conservative management remains effective for many cases, unstable and displaced diaphyseal fractures often require surgical stabilization to achieve optimal alignment and functional recovery. Elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) has emerged as a minimally invasive and effective technique that provides stable fixation while preserving periosteal blood supply and promoting early mobilization.  Objective: To evaluate the clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of elastic stable intramedullary nailing in pediatric forearm fractures.  Methods: This study reviews the outcomes of ESIN in pediatric patients with diaphyseal forearm fractures, focusing on fracture union, functional recovery, and complication rates. Evidence from multiple clinical studies was analyzed to assess the effectiveness and safety of the technique. Parameters such as time to union, range of motion, and complication profile were considered in evaluating outcomes.  Results: ESIN demonstrates high rates of fracture union with excellent functional outcomes in the majority of pediatric patients. Most studies report rapid fracture healing, minimal soft tissue disruption, and early return to daily activities. Functional outcomes, including restoration of forearm rotation and strength, are generally satisfactory, with low rates of malunion or nonunion. Complications such as nail irritation, infection, and refracture are relatively uncommon and usually manageable without significant long-term morbidity. Comparative studies have shown ESIN to be superior or equivalent to plating techniques in terms of functional outcome, operative time, and cosmetic results.  Conclusion: Elastic stable intramedullary nailing is a reliable, safe, and minimally invasive method for the management of pediatric forearm fractures. It offers excellent clinical and functional outcomes with a low complication rate, making it a preferred treatment modality for unstable diaphyseal fractures in children.

Paper Submission Last Date
31 - May - 2026

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