Extended Use of Proximal Humeral Locking Plates in Pediatric Femur Fractures and Osteotomies

Abstract

Objective: To assess the extended use of proximal humeral locking plates in paediatric femur fractures and osteotomies. Background: Pediatric fractures and deformity correction pose unique challenges in orthopedic surgery. The utilization of the proximal humerus locking plates (PHLPs) in the pediatric population remains a relatively unexplored area. This manuscript presents a case-based analysis of the extended use of PHLP in pediatric femur fractures and osteotomies. Four distinct cases involving the use of PHLP are discussed, demonstrating its versatility and efficacy in addressing a variety of orthopedic conditions in the pediatric age group. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 4 pediatric patients who underwent surgical interventions utilizing PHLP at our institution. Case 1 involved a 9-year-old girl with a neglected neck of femur fracture, managed with in situ screw fixation and valgus osteotomy and stabilization using a PHLP. Case 2 featured a 10-year-old boy with a distal femur fracture, managed with a PHLP. Case 3 highlighted a 12-year-old girl with genu valgum, who underwent medial closing wedge osteotomy stabilized with a PHLP. Lastly, case 4 presented an 11-year-old boy with a subtrochanteric femur fracture, also managed using a PHLP. Surgical techniques, postoperative care, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: All 4 cases maintained satisfactory stability and alignment at final follow-up. All of them returned to preinjury status within 6 months. Conclusion: The extended use of proximal humeral locking plates in pediatric femur fractures and osteotomies presents a viable option for orthopedic surgeons. These cases illustrate the versatility and positive outcomes associated with PHLP in the pediatric population.