Remodeling after femoral shaft fractures in children treated by the modified blount method.

One hundred forty-one children with femoral shaft fractures in the 1-12-year age range were treated by simple skin traction without spica cast immobilization. All fractures united in an average traction period of 28 days. Clinical and radiological reevaluation 2-10 years after treatment showed that fracture location, age, and overriding significantly affected overgrowth, whereas the length of the follow-up period and the direction of angular deformity affected correction of angulation. The following conclusions were reached: Distraction should be avoided, and overriding of up to 15 mm can be compensated for by growth acceleration. Initial angular deformities of up to 20 degrees in the coronal plane and up to 30 degrees in the sagittal plane will end in a satisfactory outcome. Rotational deformity was not a problem following this method of treatment.