Changing Demographics of Paediatric Femoral Fractures in a District General Hospital: A 9-year Review
Journal Title: Journal of Orthopaedic Science and Research - Year 2021, Vol 2, Issue 1
Abstract
Introduction: Paediatric femoral fractures are not uncommon. We noted an anecdotal change in the age of patients that were treated over a number of years. We reviewed all the femoral fracture cases that we have seen since 1st January 2011 to observe if there has been a change in the demographics of paediatric femoral fractures. Method: We utilised our online theatre system and reviewed every operation list from January 2011 until December 2019, noting all paediatric femoral fracture operations, the age, comorbidities, and the type of surgery. Results: 108 cases were identified. All were unilateral cases. 75% were male. The ages ranged from 11 months to 16 years. Children under 5 years of age, sustained injuries from slips and trips, playing in nursery or play areas, and trampoline. There were a good number of fractures caused by family members falling on them. There were 10 suspected non accidental injuries, including one confirmed in this group. Contact sports, skateboarding and cycling dominated in those 6 years and older. Discussion: There has been a gradual decline in the number of paediatric femoral fracture admissions from 2012. The average age of patients declined from 6.8 years in 2011 to 3.8 years in 2019. Prior to 2014, there were cases of high energy injury from road traffic collisions and motor-cross racing in children aged 12 years and over. After 2014, we did not have any admissions of children over the age of 13 years. This is likely due to Leeds General Infirmary gaining its major trauma centre status for our local region and the increased sedentary lifestyle of modern children. Conclusion: The ages and number of patients presenting with femoral fractures are decreasing in our unit. This is likely due to sedentary lifestyles or due to the effect of having major trauma centre nearby.
Authors and Affiliations
Georgina Kakra Wartemberg*, Faris Ali, James Davies, Karolina Mazur, Parvathi Varma, Sade Uwaoma, Nirmal Tulwa
Keywords
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- EP ID EP698815
- DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.46889/JOSR.2021.2105
- Views 121
- Downloads 0
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