Treatment of femoral shaft fractures in children by early spica casting

Abstract

Eighty-five children with femoral shaft fractures were studied prospectively to determine the benefi·ts of early application of a single-hip spica cast. They were compared with 85 children with similar fractures treated by skin traction for 4 weeks followed by a spica cast for 2 weeks. The study revealed that femoral shaft fractures in children can be treated in a single-hip spica cast with results comparable to those achieved by traction. The additional advantages were substantial savings in cost, early reunion of child with parents and increased availability of beds.S Afr Med J 1989; 76: 96-9