Hybrid fixation of diaphyseal both bone forearm fracture versus dual plating in adolescence

Abstract

Purpose To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of hybrid fixation with its two types, versus dual plating in diaphyseal both bone forearm (BBF) fractures in adolescents. Methods A retrospective comparative study was carried out on 31 adolescents with a mean age of 13 years with BBF diaphyseal fractures (AO Foundation [AO]/Orthopaedic Trauma Association [OTA] 22-A3) managed by hybrid fixation (group A) or dual plating (group B). Evaluation included operative time, blood loss, time to union, range of motion, Price functional grading, and complications. Results The mean follow-up period was 24.5 months. The patients were divided into two group; group A (15 patients) and group B (16 patients). The mean operative time in group A was (60±7 min), and in group B was (82±8 min), with a highly statistically significant difference between both groups ( P <0.001). Mean blood loss in group A was (67±15 ml) and in group B was (101±10 ml), with a highly statistically significant difference ( P <0.001). Time for union ranged from (9±2 weeks) for the radius, and (10±1weeks) for the ulna. There was no significant difference in either time to union (radius P =0.449, and ulna P =0.156) or Price grading system ( P =0.901) between both major groups. Only 1 case had a superficial infection which was managed conservatively. Conclusion Hybrid fixation with its two types is not only a considerable alternative to dual plating in the treatment of BBF fractures in adolescents achieving the same rate of union, and functional outcomes but also has the advantage of having a shorter operative time and minimal blood loss.