Elastic intramedullary nails versus submuscular locked plates in treatment of pediatric length stable femoral shaft fractures: A prospective, randomized clinical trial

Objectives

Diaphyseal femoral fractures are frequently encountered in children aged 6–14 years and remain a management challenge. The optimal fixation strategy for length-stable fracture patterns in this age group remains debated, particularly regarding the relative benefits of elastic intramedullary nailing (EIN) versus submuscular locked plating (SLP). The objective of this study was to compare functional and radiological outcomes following fixation of pediatric length-stable femoral shaft fractures using EIN or SLP.