Simultaneous Bilateral Femoral Fracture in Children
- African Journal of Paediatric Surgery , 20 (2) : 120-123
Résumé
Introduction: Bilateral femoral fractures in children (BFFC) are an uncommon condition. Only a few cases were reported in the literature. The frequency and outcome in low‑setting facilities are unknown. This study aims to describe our experience in managing BFFC. Patients and Methods: A 10‑year ongoing study spanning from 2010 to 2020 was held in a level‑1 paediatric facility. We included all cases of BFFC on a bone‑free disease with at least 10 months of follow‑up time. Data were collected and analysed with statistical software. Results: A total of eight patients with ten BFFC were collected. It involved mainly boys (n = 7/8) with median age of 8 years. Mechanism of injury were a road traffic accident (n = 4), a fall from height (n = 3), and been crushed by a falling wall (n = 1). Associated injuries were frequent (n = 6/8).
Patients were managed nonoperatively with spica cast (n = 5) and by elastic intramedullary nails (n = 3). After 6.11 years of mean follow‑up time, all fractures healed. The outcome was excellent and good in 7 cases. One patient sustained knees stiffness. Conclusion: Non‑operative management of BFFC showed satisfactory outcomes. Early surgical care must be developed in our low‑income settings to reduce in‑hospital stay and encourage early weight‑bearing.
Mots-clés
Bilateral femoral fracture, children, elastic intramedullary nail, high‑energy trauma, low‑income setting