Functional and radiological outcome after delayed fixation of femoral neck fractures in pediatric patients

Analysis of influential factors on surgical outcomes in pediatric femur neck fractures: a single-institution retrospective study

AIM

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate surgical outcomes and identify influential factors in pediatric femoral neck fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 25 hips from 23 pediatric patients who underwent surgical intervention for femoral neck fractures were included. Data encompassing patient demographics, fracture types, surgical techniques, complications, and follow-up outcomes were analyzed retrospectively. Factors such as fracture displacement, timing of surgery, fixation methods, and reduction quality were assessed concerning postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Falling from a height accounted for 48% of the trauma mechanisms, and avascular necrosis (AVN) was the most prevalent complication (4 hips). Although fracture displacement, bad reduction quality, and delayed surgery were more common among complicated cases, statistical significance was not attained. The study noted an association between presence of avascular necrosis and worse clinical results(rho: 0.428, p: 0.05, CI: 95%).

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment yielded favorable clinical outcomes; however, limitations due to the study's retrospective design, limited sample size, and single-center approach underscore the necessity for larger multicenter studies. Our findings emphasize the need for comprehensive investigations to better understand and manage pediatric femoral neck fractures, especially regarding factors influencing AVN and long-term outcomes.

Does early stable fixation reduce complications in paediatric femoral neck fractures?

The primary objective of this study was to juxtapose the union rate and incidence of complications in paediatric patients presenting early (≤ 7 days) following injury with children presenting later (> 7 days) with femoral neck fractures. This critical appraisal evaluated 15 patients according to their timing of presentation and surgery from the initial day of injury (Group A: operated ≤ 7 days or Group B: > 7 days of injury). Patients with traumatic femoral neck fractures with Delbet 1 to 4 subtypes who were skeletally immature (age ≤ 16 years) were included in the study. Pathological fractures and post-infective fractures were not included. Each patient's secondary loss of reduction was calculated by measuring the Neck shaft angle (NSA) on the immediate post-operative radiograph and at the union. A change in NSA of ≥ 5 degrees was considered a significant loss of reduction. Ratliff's Criteria was used to analyze the final result, and a thorough record of complications was kept. There were no significant variations in the two groups' with respect to distributions of age, sex, injury mechanism, or fracture pattern. The most frequent injury culprit in both groups was falling from a height. Type II fracture pattern (54.54%) was more common in group A, while Type III and Type II fracture pattern was equally distributed in group B. In group A, the mean operation time was 55 ± 8.25 minutes, whereas in group B, it was 65 ± 15 minutes (p-value > 0.05). In group A, 90.9% of patients underwent CCS fixation, and in group B, 75% underwent fixation by CCS. The quality of reduction in post-operative radiographs was anatomical in 10 (90.9%) patients and unacceptable in 1 (9.1%) patient. In group B, 2 (50%) patients had an anatomical reduction, while 2 (50%) patients had an unacceptable reduction. Timing of reduction and its association with complications showed that early stable reduction and fixation decrease the occurrence of complications in femoral neck fractures (p-value = 0.033). Fracture union was seen in all our patients in both groups and none of our patients underwent non-union. The mean union time was 11.11 ± 7.06 weeks in group A and 16.5 ± 2.59 weeks in group B (p-value = 0.0189). In group A, only 1 (9.1%) patient developed coxa vara. In group B, out of 4 patients, the femoral head of one patient underwent avascular necrosis, one patient exhibited coxa vara, and 1 patient developed premature physeal closure with limb length inequality. Management of femoral neck fractures in children is challenging because of the paediatric bone's peculiar anatomic and physiological considerations. In our study, patients operated within 7 days developed fewer complications as compared to patients who were operated after 7 days, which was statistically significant. Although AVN is a frequent adverse consequence of pediatric femoral neck fractures, early reduction and stable fixation lowers AVN rates, as observed in our study. Our short-term functional and radiological results using the Ratliff scoring system were comparable to previous studies owing to stable anatomic reduction. Based on our findings and the existing literature, we emphasize long-term follow-up and recommend an early stable anatomic reduction in the treatment of paediatric femoral neck fractures.

Risk factors related with avascular necrosis after internal fixation of femoral neck fractures in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Less than 1% of children develop femoral neck fractures (FNF), making them uncommon. However, they may have dangerous side effects, like avascular necrosis. Even though several risk factors for postoperative avascular necrosis have been identified, there is still debate regarding them. In this investigation, a meta-analysis was performed to examine the potential causes of postoperative avascular necrosis in children with FNF.

Methods

We conducted a thorough literature search to find risk factors for avascular necrosis (AVN) after internal fixation of pediatric FNF. Until December 2022, we searched several databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Orthosearch, and Sinomed. Software Zotero 6.0 and Stata 17.0 were used to organise and synthesise the data. Finally, a sensitivity and publication bias test was carried out.

Results

Our study includes a total of 15 case-control studies involving 814 patients. The risk of postoperative AVN increased with age at fracture encounter (95% CI: 0.64-1.88, P = 0.0003), initial fracture displacement (95% CI: 1.87-9.54, P = 0.0005), and poor fracture reduction (95% CI:1.95-22.34, P = 0.0024) were risk factors for postoperative AVN. There was no significant relationship between gender and postoperative AVN (95% CI: 0.52-1.31, P = 0.41). Conversely, Postoperative AVN and reduction methods have no connection with each other (95% CI: 0.77-2.66, P = 0.25), procedure time (95% CI: 0.43-2.99, P = 0.16), or injury mechanism (95% CI: 0.32-2.26, P = 0.75). The incidence of post-operative AVN varies between Delbet fracture types (95% CI: 0.15-0.31, P < 0.0001), with the overall trend being that the incidence of post-operative AVN is highest for type II, lowest for type IV, and close for types I and III, but it is not clear which type of fracture is the independent risk factor. Funnel plots indicate no significant publication bias.

Conclusions

In line with this study, About 26% of children who underwent surgery for a femoral neck fracture suffered postoperative AVN. The main risk factors for AVN were the child's age, the initial displacement of the fractures, and poorly reduced fractures. The risk of AVN did not significantly correlate with gender, the time of the procedure, reduction methods or the mechanism of injury. The overall trend in the incidence of postoperative AVN for the different Delbet types of fracture is that the incidence of postoperative AVN is highest for type II, lowest for type IV, and close for types I and III, but it is not clear which type of fracture is the independent risk factor.

Three-Year Experience and Outcomes of Near-Early Internal Fixation for Femoral Neck Fractures in Pediatric Trauma Patients: A Retrospective Study

Background The fractured neck of the femur in children is commonly caused by high-energy trauma, and despite its low incidence, complications are more frequent. Delayed presentation is not unusual in developing countries. The interval between injury and surgery is thought to be a critical factor in determining outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of "near early" internal fixation (24-72 hours) for fractured neck of the femur in children. Methods This is a retrospective observational study that analyzed complete case records from a period of seven years. Cases were classified according to the Delbet classification and outcomes were assessed using the Ratliff criteria with a minimum follow-up of three years. Results The study included 24 male and 11 female patients, with an average age of 11.28 years. The most common cause of injury was road traffic accidents. The fracture distribution in the study population was as follows: Delbet type II in 18 patients, Delbet type III in 10 patients, and Delbet type IV in seven patients. In our study, all patients underwent near-early fixation, meaning their fractures were fixed within 24-72 hours of injury. The average time for the clinical-radiological union was 8 weeks, and the most common complication was premature physeal fusion, followed by osteonecrosis. Conclusion In developing countries, where patients often experience delayed referrals and lack of awareness, near-early fixation (24-72 hours) of a fractured neck of the femur in children is a crucial option that holds significant value.

Open reduction versus closed reduction in internal fixation of displaced femoral neck fracture in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The quality of reduction is an important factor affecting clinical outcomes for displaced femoral neck fractures (FNFs). However, concerns remain about the invasiveness of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) as compared to that of closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF), and the choice between ORIF and CRIF as an optimal treatment strategy for displaced pediatric FNF remains controversial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for studies published up to December 22, 2022, that compared ORIF and CRIF techniques for treating FNF in children. Pooled analysis identified differences in surgical outcomes between ORIF and CRIF, especially regarding postoperative complications, such as osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), nonunion, coxa vara deformity, leg-length discrepancy LLD, and premature physeal closure (PPC).

RESULTS

We included 15 studies with 635 pediatric FNF cases in our review. Of these, 324 and 311 were treated with ORIF and CRIF, respectively. The pooled analysis revealed that no significant differences existed between each reduction technique for ONFH (odds ratio [OR] = 0.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51-1.56; P = 0.69), nonunion (OR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.18-1.47; P = 0.21), coxa vara deformity (OR = 0.58; 95% CI 0.20-1.72; P = 0.33), LLD (OR = 0.57; 95% CI 0.18-1.82; P = 0.35), and PPC (OR = 0.72; 95% CI 0.11-4.92; P = 0.74).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite concerns about the invasiveness of ORIF, no differences in complications exist between ORIF and CRIF after FNF in children. Therefore, we believe that ORIF should be performed in FNF when the fracture is irreducible by closed manner.

The incidence and risk factors for femoral head necrosis after femoral neck fracture in pediatric patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The incidence of avascular necrosis (AVN) after pediatric femoral neck fracture (PFNF) in the literature varies widely, and the risk factors associated with AVN after PFNF are controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to accurately investigate the incidence of AVN after PFNF and systematically evaluate and meta-classify their risk factors.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed of PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. The pooled rate and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to assess the incidence of AVN after PFNF, and pooled odds ratio (OR) were calculated to measure the effect sizes. In addition, we performed subgroup, stratified, and publication bias analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 30 articles were included in our meta-analysis, with 303 AVN cases among 1185 patients. The pooled incidence of AVN after PFNF was 22% (95% CI 18%, 27%). Subgroup analyses indicated Delbet type I-IV fracture incidences with AVN of 45%, 32%, 17%, and 12%, respectively. The incidence of AVN after PFNF in Asia was 19%, lower than in Africa at 36%, Europe at 26%, and North America at 23%. In addition, the larger sample size group and the earlier published literature group showed a higher incidence of necrosis. Stratified analyses showed that patient age and Delbet fracture classification were both important factors affecting AVN after PFNF (OR = 1.61, p = 0.02 and OR = 3.02, p < 0.001, respectively), while the time to treatment was not (OR = 0.9, p = 0.71).

CONCLUSION

The pooled incidence of AVN after PFNF was ~ 22%; furthermore, the available evidence demonstrates that patient age and Delbet type of fracture were important influencing factors of AVN after PFNF.

Outcomes of operative management in the delayed presenting neck of femur fractures in children: A case series

Introduction

Fracture neck of femur in pediatric age group occurs due to high energy trauma and is an uncommon entity with high complication rate. No uniform guidelines are present to manage these fractures, especially in delayed presentation of fracture neck of femur as a smaller number of such cases were reported.

Cases

Eight children (nine hips), five boys and three girls of age <15 years, were operated on. The mean delay in surgery time was 8.6 days (range: 5-22 days). The mean union time was 13.44 weeks. The mean follow-up was 20.88 months (range: 12-36 months). All the cases were managed with closed or open reduction followed by internal fixation with or without hip spica application and resulted in satisfactory outcomes in most of the cases.

Conclusion

Anatomical reduction (open or closed) and fixation reduce the risk of complications even in delayed presentation if the orthopedic surgeon is familiar with the management.

Effect of the Number, Size, and Location of Cannulated Screws on the Incidence of Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head in Pediatric Femoral Neck Fractures: A Review of 153 Cases

BACKGROUND

The correlation between the number, size, and location of cannulated screws and the incidence of avascular necrosis (AVN) in children with femoral neck fractures treated surgically is uncertain.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 153 children (mean age: 10.6±3.7 y) with femoral neck fractures treated by internal fixation with 2 (n=112) or 3 (n=41) cannulated screws. The severity of initial displacement was divided into incomplete (type I) and complete (type II, angulation <50 degrees; type III, angulation >50 degrees) fractures. The diameter of the screw was measured and recorded as a percentage of the femoral neck width. The distance (D) between the mid-point of each screw at the base (B) of the femoral neck and at the tip (T) of each screw and the superior and anterior cortices of the femoral neck, respectively, were measured on anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (L) radiographs. Values were expressed as the ratio between the measured distance and the width of the femoral neck (BDAP%, TDAP%, BDL%, and TDL%). The correlation between the number, size, and location of the screws and AVN was analyzed.

RESULTS

Patients with type II of initial displacement treated with 2 cannulated screws had a lower AVN rate (21.4%) than those treated with 3 screws (44.8%) (P=0.027). Screw diameter (19%) in patients with AVN was larger than (17%) in patients without AVN (P<0.001); patients with AVN had a lower BDAP% (48.6%) than those without AVN (56.4%) (P<0.001). Screw size and BDAP% were risk factors for AVN (P<0.05). Further, screw diameter >16.5% and BDAP% <51.6% of the femoral neck width were the cutoff values for an increased AVN rate (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients treated with 2 cannulated screws showed a lower rate of AVN than patients treated with 3 screws. Screws of larger size and screws closer to the piriformis fossa on AP radiographs increased the risk of AVN in children with femoral neck fractures treated surgically.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Controversies in the management of pediatric neck femur fractures- a systematic review

Purpose

To review controversies systematically in the management of pediatric neck femur fracture from the literature and to develop consensus for the optimum management.

Methods

Authors searched literature by using keywords of pediatric neck femur fracture, proximal femur fracture, complications, management by following PRISMA guidelines. A common dilemma was listed.

Results

Age, mechanism of injury, fracture type, presentation, treatment method, implant, and nature of complications were compared. Inference from recent literature was extracted for optimum management.

Conclusion

Immediate anatomical reduction with stable fixation must be accomplished. Complications continue to happen despite the best efforts and a longer follow-up is important.

The clinical features, management options and complications of paediatric femoral fractures

This article discusses the incidence, applied anatomy and classification of paediatric femoral fractures based on critical appraisal of the available evidence. The aim is to identify techniques that are relevant to contemporary practice whilst excluding the technical details of individual procedures that are beyond the scope of this review. Injuries of the proximal, diaphyseal and distal segments are considered individually as there are considerations that are specific to each anatomical site. Femoral neck fractures are rare injuries and require prompt anatomical reduction and stable fixation to minimise the potentially devastating consequences of avascular necrosis. Diaphyseal fractures are relatively common, and there is a spectrum of management options that depend on patient age and size. Distal femoral fractures often involve the physis, which contributes up to 70% of femoral length. Growth arrest is common consequence of fractures in this region, resulting in angular and length-related deformity. Long-term surveillance is recommended to identify deformity in evolution and provide an opportunity for early intervention. Deliberate injury should be considered in all fractures, particularly distal femoral physeal injuries and fractures in the non-walking child.

Bilateral Transcervical Femur Neck Fracture in a Case of Pseudohypoparathyroidism: A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature

Introduction:

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is an uncommon metabolic bone disorder characterized by biochemical hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia and raised parathyroid hormone (PTH), and target tissue unresponsiveness to the biological actions of PTH. In addition, many patients with PHP exhibit a distinctive constellation of developmental and skeletal defects.

Case Report:

An 11-year-old girl was brought to emergency pediatric department for the assessment of fever with generalized tonic-clonic seizure (GTCS) with inability to walk. She had hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. The diagnosis of PHP was made and was started on Vitamin D3 and oral calcium. Physical examination revealed no dysmorphic features. Biochemical investigations revealed normal complete blood count, liver and renal functions, and arterial blood gas. However, serum PTH was high with slightly decreased Vitamin D3.

Conclusion:

As per our knowledge, this is the first reported case in literature of bilateral pathological transcervical neck femur fracture in a case of PHP following episode of GTCS. Multidisciplinary team approach with the involvement of pediatrician, endocrinologist, and orthopedic surgeon and devising a plan after thorough workup keeping in mind the infrequent presentations of hypoparathyroidism and adequate pre-operative optimization helps provide appropriate management of this rare presentation. This case report was prepared following the CARE guidelines.

The clinical and radiographic characteristics of avascular necrosis after pediatric femoral neck fracture: a systematic review and retrospective study of 115 patients

BACKGROUND

Avascular necrosis (AVN) after pediatric femoral neck fracture (PFNF) showed poor prognosis, but its clinical and radiographic characteristics remained unclear.

METHODS

A systematic review and a retrospective study were performed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic characteristics of patients with AVN after PFNF.

RESULTS

A total of 686 patients with PFNF and 203 patients with AVN from 21 articles were analyzed. Ratliff's classification was used in 178 patients, with types I, II, and III AVN accounting for 58.4%, 25.3%, and 16.3%, respectively. Ratliff's assessment was used in 147 patients, of whom 88.4% had an unsatisfactory prognosis. In retrospective study, 115 patients with a mean age of 13.6 ± 2.0 years were included. The mean interval between AVN and PFNF was 13.7 ± 9.5 months. At the time of diagnosis, 59.1% cases were symptomatic and 65.2% progressed to collapsed stage. Fifty (43.5%), 61 (53.0%), and 4 patients (3.5%) were defined as types I, II, and III , respectively, via Ratliff's classification. Thirteen (11.3%), 40 (34.8%), and 62 patients (53.9%) showed types A/B, C1, and C2 disease, respectively, via the JIC classification. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a strong relation between collapsed stage and symptomatic cases (OR = 6.25, 95% CI = 2.39-16.36) and JIC classification (OR = 3.41, 95% CI = 1.62-7.17).

CONCLUSION

AVN after PFNF showed a tendency toward extensive necrotic lesions, presumably resulting in a rapid progression of femoral head collapse. And the symptoms and the JIC classification are other two risk factors of collapse progression.

Current controversies in management of fracture neck femur in children: A review

Paediatric femur neck fracture is an uncommon injury and is known for high rate of complications. This in turn, can have significant impact on development of hip and overall function of the child. Controversy prevails in many areas of management and it still remains a difficult injury to manage. Through this paper, an attempt has been made to summarize the current concepts in management and suggest current recommendations regarding the controversies so that these injuries can be managed judiciously. A systematic review was done as per PRISMA guidelines using pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. 18 studies with better scientific evidence after quality assessment were included in the systematic review. Current trends and Controversial issues in management were then identified and discussed. It was observed that existing literature is inconclusive regarding several aspects of management of this injury with no clear guideline available. However, certain recommendations useful for decision making could be made. These injuries should be managed aggressively with operative fixation at the earliest and one should not hesitate to open reduce if acceptable alignment is not obtained after one or two gentle closed manipulations. Choice of implant and their configuration in neck can vary depending on age and weight of patient, type of injury and surgeon's preference. Initial fracture displacement could be considered to be most predictive for development of osteonecrosis of the femoral head, whereas, role of surgical decompression, type of fixation and timing of surgery is still debatable. Functional outcome is primarily affected by osteonecrosis of the femoral head, nonunion and severe coxa vara, whereas mild coxa vara, shortening, and premature closure of physis when considered alone, don't have significant influence on functional outcome in short term. Treatment of fracture neck femur in children is still controversial in many aspects and needs further research. It should be understood that complications can occur regardless of the method of treatment and might reveal their full impact many years after injury. Hence, a guarded prognosis should be explained to the parents and care-givers at the time of injury.

Fractures of the Proximal Femur in Childhood: A Review

BACKGROUND

Femoral neck fractures in children are rare injuries, occurring due to high-energy trauma. Due to the unique anatomy and blood supply of the proximal femur in growing children, these fractures are notorious for high rates of complications despite appropriate management. Classification of these fractures is according to the Delbet system, which not only guides management but also gives prognostic clues. Multiple fixation methods have been described and there is no consensus on what constitutes the best treatment. Osteonecrosis, non-union, coxa vara and premature physeal arrest are the most frequent complications.

PURPOSE

To review the current knowledge, discuss controversial aspects, and provide suggestions for future research.

METHODS

We have reviewed the literature on paediatric proximal femur fractures and have provided an evidence-based guide to the diagnosis and management of these injuries. Common complications have been elaborated and options for their prevention and/or management discussed.

CONCLUSION

There is universal agreement that anatomic reduction and stable internal fixation, supplemented by spica immobilization in younger children, are essential to obtain good outcomes. The role of capsular decompression, choice and configuration of implant, and appropriate timing of surgery are aspects that continue to be debated. Multicenter prospective studies are necessary to standardize treatment of these challenging injuries.

Does the timing of treatment affect complications of pediatric femoral neck fractures?

Objectives

Pediatric femoral neck fractures were reviewed to compare complications with the time of presentation.

Methods

34 pediatric femoral neck fractures were studied to detect union time, avascular necrosis, premature physis fusion, and the neck-shaft angle. All complications were comparable between both groups.

Results

The mean union time was more in late presented group. Four children developed AVN. The neck shaft angle and pre mature fusion of growth plate were same in both groups.

Conclusions

The frequency of the complications except union time in pediatric neck femur fracture is comparable in early and late presented groups.

Risk factors for the development of avascular necrosis after femoral neck fractures in children: a review of 239 cases

AIMS

The aim of this study was to clarify the factors that predict the development of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in children with a fracture of the femoral neck.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 239 children with a mean age of 10.0 years (sd 3.9) who underwent surgical treatment for a femoral neck fracture. Risk factors were recorded, including age, sex, laterality, mechanism of injury, initial displacement, the type of fracture, the time to reduction, and the method and quality of reduction. AVN of the femoral head was assessed on radiographs. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent risk factors for AVN. Chi-squared tests and Student's t-tests were used for subgroup analyses to determine the risk factors for AVN.

RESULTS

We found that age (p = 0.006) and initial displacement (p = 0.001) were significant independent risk factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that 12 years of age was the cut-off for increasing the rate of AVN. Severe initial displacement (p = 0.021) and poor quality of reduction (p = 0.022) significantly increased the rate of AVN in patients aged 12 years or greater, while in those aged less than 12 years, the rate of AVN significantly increased only with initial displacement (p = 0.048). A poor reduction significantly increased the rate of AVN in patients treated by closed reduction (p = 0.026); screw and plate fixation was preferable to cannulated screw or Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation for decreasing the rate of AVN in patients treated by open reduction (p = 0.034).

CONCLUSION

The rate of AVN increases with age, especially in patients aged 12 years or greater, and with the severity of displacement. In patients treated by closed reduction, anatomical reduction helps to decrease the rate of AVN, while in those treated by open reduction, screw and plate fixation was preferable to fixation using cannulated screws or K-wires. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1160-1167.

Surgical treatment with cannulated screws for pediatric femoral neck fractures: A case series

INTRODUCTION

Femoral neck fractures are uncommon injuries in children, but the high incidence of long-term complications makes it important clinical entity. Early surgical treatment to achieve optimal results and to avoid a high rate of complications is widely advised. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze the outcome of 8 children who sustained a femoral neck fracture.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The patients (6 boys and 2 girls with an average age of 9.2 years) were treated within 24 h following admission to hospital by closed reduction and internal fixation. The type of fracture was distinguished according to Delbet's classification system. The outcome was analyzed using Ratliff's criteria, and a detailed record of complications was maintained.

RESULTS

According Delbet's classification system, there were 3 type I, 2 type II, 2 type III, and 1 type IV fractures. The average follow-up was 39.2 months (range 8-95). A satisfactory outcome was obtained in 6 (75%) children. Avascular necrosis was the most notable complication, which was reported in the 2 fair outcomes (25%).

CONCLUSIONS

Early and aggressive surgical treatment aimed at anatomical reduction result in a satisfactory outcome in pediatric femur neck fractures. Development of avascular necrosis is the main complication.

Management of Pediatric Femoral Neck Fracture

In the pediatric population, femoral neck fracture is a relatively uncommon injury with a high complication rate, despite appropriate diagnosis and management. The anatomy and blood supply of the proximal femur in the skeletally immature patient differs from that in the adult patient. Generally, these fractures result from high-energy trauma and are categorized using the Delbet classification system. This system both guides management and aids the clinician in determining the risk of osteonecrosis after these fractures. Other complications include physeal arrest, coxa vara, and nonunion. Multiple fracture fixation methods have been used, with the overall goal being anatomic reduction with stable fixation. Insufficiency fractures of the femoral neck, although rare, must also be considered in the differential diagnosis for the pediatric patient presenting with atraumatic hip pain.

Early versus late treatment of paediatric femoral neck fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Femoral neck fractures in children represent less than 1% of all paediatric fractures. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is one of the devastating complications of this fracture. Time to treatment is one of the most important predictors of this outcome with no clear consensus in the literature. The aim of this study was to determine whether early treatment (< 24 hours) of pediatric femoral neck fractures is associated with a lower rate of osteonecrosis of the femoral head compared to late treatment (> 24 hours).

METHODS

We searched several databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library), from January 1966 to November 2017 for any comparative studies that evaluated early (< 24 hours) versus late (> 24 hours) treatment of paediatric femoral neck fractures. We pooled the effect sizes using fixed effects model that compared the rate of osteonecrosis of the femoral head between children undergoing early versus late treatment, open versus closed reduction, displaced versus non-displaced and different Delbet type femoral neck fractures. Descriptive and qualitative data was also extracted.

RESULTS

Of the 391 articles identified, six studies (prospective and retrospective cohort studies) were eligible for the meta-analysis, with a total of 231 paediatric femoral neck fractures. The pooled odds ratio (OR) for osteonecrosis of the femoral head did not show any statistically significant difference between early (< 24 hours) versus late (> 24 hours) treatment (OR = 1.19, 95% CI 0.56, 2.51, I² = 23.6%), nor between open versus closed reduction of paediatric femoral neck fractures (OR = 1.62, 95% CI 0.82, 3.22, I² = 19.57%). Displaced and Delbet type I/II femoral neck fractures were 3.8 (OR = 3.81, 95% CI 1.49, 9.78, I² = 0.00%) and 2.4 (OR = 2.43, 95% CI 1.28, 4.61, I² = 0.57%) times more associated with osteonecrosis of the femoral head compared to non-displaced and Delbet type III/IV fractures respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The cumulative evidence at present does not indicate an association between the time to treatment or method of reduction of femoral neck fractures in children and the risk of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. However, initial expedient treatment of femoral neck fractures in children should always remain the rule especially for displaced and Delbet type I/II femoral neck fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II/III.

Management of femoral neck fractures in children: Experience of a short series in a developing country

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the femoral neck are rare injuries in children but can have many devastating complications. Their treatment is not standardized, but the objectives are early anatomic reduction to minimize the risk for complications. The aim of this study was to assess outcomes of a short series of femoral neck fractures managed in a resource-limited setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical charts of 11 children who were managed in our institution for femoral neck fractures between January 2000 and December 2015 were assessed retrospectively. There were two cases (n = 2) of Delbet type I, 5 (n = 5) type II, and 4 (n = 4) type III fractures. Patients were treated either surgically by open reduction and internal fixation (n = 4) or conservatively by traction followed by spica cast (n = 7). Outcomes were assessed using Ratliff system.

RESULTS

Femoral neck fracture incidence was one case per year. Of the 11 patients, there were 7 boys and 4 girls, with a mean age 9.4 ± 3.28 years. At the mean follow-up of 3.64 ± 1.97 years (range, 2-8.8 years), outcome was fair to good in 8 (72.7%) and poor in 3 (27.3%) cases. Average union time was 13.5 ± 1.77 weeks. Complication rate was 72.7%. Avascular necrosis occurred in three cases (27.3%). Six patients (54.5%) developed coxa vara, with a mean neck-shaft angle of 102.16° ±12.07° (range, 90°-118°). Five patients (45.5%) had leg length discrepancy with a mean 18 mm (range, 7-35 mm).

DISCUSSION

local conditions negatively influenced the management of femoral neck fractures. Conservative treatment led to many complications which increase the cost of management.

Femoral Neck Fractures in Children: A Review

Paediatric femoral neck fractures are uncommon injuries and are usually caused by high-energy trauma. Low-energy trauma can result in pathologic neck fractures and stress fractures of the neck, due to repetitive activity. Surgical options can vary based on age, Delbet classification and displacement of the fracture. Treatment for displaced fractures is by closed or open reduction and smooth/cancellous screw fixation. Compression screw and side plate fixation is indicated for basal fractures. Fixation should be supplemented by spica cast immobilization in younger children. The high rate of complications occurs due to the vascular anatomy of the hip and proximal femur. Avascular necrosis, coxa vara, premature physeal closure, and nonunion are the most common and these often result in poor outcome.

Early prediction of outcomes in hip fractures: initial fracture displacement

We retrospectively analyzed the surgical treatment of 28 pediatric hip fractures. The majority of cases were Delbet type 2 (57%) and type 3 (29%). The average age of the patients was 10.8 years (range: 2-16 years). The mean follow-up period was 91 months. Displaced fractures were found in 18 cases (64%). The major factor in the development of avascular necrosis was the degree of displacement at the time of initial presentation (P<0.05), irrespective of fracture type. Although the degree of initial displacement cannot be prevented, careful exposure of soft tissue during open reduction will reduce avascular necrosis.

Transphyseal Femoral Neck Fracture in a Twenty-Month Old Male Child

Transphyseal femoral neck fractures are an extremely rare event, mainly occurring in children subjected to an significant traumatic force. The diagnosis is usually suggested by clinical examination with radiographic confirmation. Management varies; however, no consensus exists as to proper treatment. Intervention is primarily focused on the prevention of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral epiphysis.

We present the case of a 20-month-old male with a delayed diagnosis of transphyseal femoral neck fracture. X-ray (XR) and computed tomography (CT) scan images were used for diagnosis, to track healing, and monitor the possible emergence of avascular necrosis. Final imaging demonstrated full healing without AVN at two years.

This study demonstrates the successful treatment of a rare pediatric fracture type with possible life-changing complications. Reduction, surgical fixation with K-wires, and spica casting are demonstrated as being acceptable treatment in the very young transphyseal fracture patient.

Osteonecrosis After Femoral Neck Fractures in Children and Adolescents: Analysis of Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

The most serious complication of femoral neck fractures in children and adolescents is osteonecrosis. Although a number of factors have been implicated in the development of osteonecrosis, no specific cause-and-effect relationship has been determined. The primary purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of osteonecrosis in children and adolescents after femoral neck fractures and to identify risk factors for its development.

METHODS

This retrospective review identified 70 patients between the ages of 1.3 and 18.1 years who were treated for a femoral neck fracture between 2000 and 2011 at a single level I pediatric trauma center and followed until clinical and radiographic union. Demographic information, injury event details, type of surgical treatment, associated injuries, time from injury to treatment, and postoperative alignment were recorded from chart and radiographic review. The primary outcome was the presence of osteonecrosis, which was determined by review of available imaging. Multivariable logistic regression analysis tested age, time to treatment, type of fixation, mechanism of injury, postoperative alignment, and capsular decompression as possible risk factors for the development of osteonecrosis.

RESULTS

Osteonecrosis occurred in 20 (29%) of the 70 patients. The median time to diagnosis of osteonecrosis was 7.8 months. Multivariable predictors of osteonecrosis included fracture displacement (P=0.01) and fracture location (P=0.02). Patient age, type of fixation, mechanism of injury, capsular decompression, postoperative alignment, and performance of reduction were not predictive of osteonecrosis after femoral neck fracture. Finally, time to treatment also was found to be a positive predictor of osteonecrosis (P=0.004), with osteonecrosis more likely in patients treated in less than 24 hours, but this finding is likely due to confounding because injury severity was closely linked to time to treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of the treatment, the prevalence of osteonecrosis after femoral neck fractures remains high. Recognizing factors that are predictive of the development of osteonecrosis can help surgeons counsel patients and families appropriately about the risk of this complication.

Intra-articular loose body caused by avascular necrosis of the femoral head in children

In children, avascular necrosis of the femoral head occurs easily because of the difference in the domination of blood flow compared with that in adults. Here we report a rare case of a 12-year-old girl who sustained a femoral neck fracture. The femoral head collapsed after open reduction and internal fixation. The hip developed into subluxation because of the gradually enlarged loose body in association with avascular necrosis. These results might be explained by the fact that blood circulation from the ligamentum teres temporarily increases during the ages of 8-12 years.

Patterns of isotope uptake in sequential postoperative bone scan in undisplaced femoral-neck fractures

PURPOSE

We aimed to investigate the changing pattern of isotope uptake in the sequential bone scan test for the prediction of osteonecrosis of the femoral head in patients with an undisplaced femoral-neck fracture.

METHODS

Fifty-four cases of sequential bone scan for nondisplaced femoral-neck fracture treated by internal fixation with cannulated screws between 2000 and 2009 were retrospectively studied. The mean follow-up period was 4.2 years. The first postoperative bone scan was performed two weeks postoperatively in all patients. Second, third, and fourth follow-up bone scans were performed at one to six months, 12-18 months, and 18-24 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Mean femoral-head ratio (FHR) in the first postoperative bone scan was 0.99. Although it was under 1.0 in 38 patients (70.4 % of the 54 patients), only one patient developed osteonecrosis of the femoral head. The others showed hot uptake in their second follow-up bone scan. Mean FHRs in the second, third, and fourth postoperative bone scans were 1.69, 1.29, and 1.05, respectively, and there were significant statistical differences in each follow-up period (P = 0.035). In addition, there were unique patterns of isotope uptake with the passage of time, such as cold uptake in the early stage, hot uptake in a couple of months, and iso-uptake in the late stage.

CONCLUSIONS

Early postoperative bone scan results should not be over interpreted when predicting osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

Factors affecting the outcome of fractures of the femoral neck in children and adolescents: a systematic review

Fractures of the femoral neck in children are rare, high-energy injuries with high complication rates. Their treatment has become more interventional but evidence of the efficacy of such measures is limited. We performed a systematic review of studies examining different types of treatment and their outcomes, including avascular necrosis (AVN), nonunion, coxa vara, premature physeal closure (PPC), and Ratliff's clinical criteria. A total of 30 studies were included, comprising 935 patients. Operative treatment and open reduction were associated with higher rates of AVN. Delbet types I and II fractures were most likely to undergo open reduction and internal fixation. Coxa vara was reduced in the operative group, whereas nonunion and PPC were not related to surgical intervention. Nonunion and coxa vara were unaffected by the method of reduction. Capsular decompression had no effect on AVN. Although surgery allows a more anatomical union, it is uncertain whether operative treatment or the type of reduction affects the rate of AVN, nonunion or PPC, because more severe fractures were operated upon more frequently. A delay in treatment beyond 24 hours was associated with a higher incidence of AVN.

Injury-to-surgery interval does not affect the occurrence of osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a prospective study in a canine model of femoral neck fractures

Background

It is controversial whether an early reduction and internal fixation can reduce the occurrence of femoral neck fracture-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). This prospective study was designed to reflect the relationship between injury-to-surgery interval (ISI) and traumatic ONFH based on a canine model of femoral neck fractures.

Material/Methods

Twenty-four dogs were equally divided randomly into 3 groups. A lateral L-shape approach centered left great trochanter was used for exposure of the femoral neck. A low-speed drill was used for making displaced fractures in the narrow femoral neck, with the femoral head kept in situ with ligamentum teres intact. In Group A, the fracture was immediately reduced and fixed with 3 parallel pins; while the operation was done 3 days later in Group B, and 3 weeks later in Group C. Another 2 dogs had their fractures untreated. Postoperatively, all dogs were fed separately and received regular x-ray examination. Left femoral heads were harvested for histological examination with a postoperative follow-up of 3.5 months.

Results

The canine model of femoral neck fractures could be achieved successfully. Radiological signs of post-fracture ONFH could not be detected at intervals of 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 1 month and 2 months. Histologically, there were 2 cases with ONFH in Group A, 1 case in Group B, and 2 cases in Group C. The difference had no statistical significance. For untreated fractures, obvious ONFH could be found radiologically.

Conclusions

A shorter ISI may not reduce the incidence of fracture-induced ONFH, which suggests that intrinsic factors play an important role in the occurrence of ONFH.

Free vascularised fibular graft for post-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head in teenage patients

Free vascularised fibular grafting has been reported to be successful for adult patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). However, its benefit in teenage patients with post-traumatic ONFH has not been determined. We evaluated the effectiveness of free vascularised fibular grafting in the treatment of this condition in children and adolescents. We retrospectively analysed 28 hips in 28 patients in whom an osteonecrotic femoral head had been treated with free vascularised fibular grafting between 2002 and 2008. Their mean age was 16.3 years (13 to 19). The stage of the disease at time of surgery, and results of treatment including pre- and post-operative Harris hip scores, were studied. We defined clinical failure as conversion to total hip replacement. All patients were followed up for a mean of four years (2 to 7). The mean Harris hip score improved from 60.4 (37 to 84) pre-operatively to 94.2 (87 to 100) at final follow-up. At the latest follow-up we found improved or unchanged radiographs in all four initially stage II hips and in 23 of 24 stage III or IV hips. Only one hip (stage V) deteriorated. No patient underwent total hip replacement. Free vascularised fibular grafting is indicated for the treatment of post-traumatic ONFH in teenage patients.