Intrafocal Pinning (IFP) for Distal Radius Fractures in Children

Twenty-three children with fracture or epiphyseal separation of the distal radius were treated with intrafocal pinning (IFP). Fifteen were boys and eight were girls. The age at surgery ranged from 8 to 15 years (mean age: 11.3 years). There were 14 extra-articular fractures and 9 epiphyseal separations (Salter-Harris type II in 8 and type III in 1). Follow-up ranged from 2 months to 42 months. The results were evaluated according to the radiographical measurements of the palmar tilt, radial inclination and ulnar variance, and were evaluated by Saito's demerit point system. The palmar tilt was reduced within the normal range in 22 of the 23 patients. The radial tilt was reduced within normal range in 21 of the 23 patients. Zero variance was achieved in 21 patients. These reductions were maintained through the end of the follow-up. All of the 11 patients who visited us for evaluation were classified as excellent. The IFP method is not only minimally invasive but also stable enough to enable early ROM exercise. We can conclude that IFP is useful for distal radius fracture and epiphyseal separation in children.