Forearm fractures in children and teenagers can be quite difficult to treat. Some fractures displace or angulate (go crooked) in casts. Re-fractures can also be a problem; it has been estimated that as many as 20% of childhood forearm fractures re-break within 6 months. Joint stiffness after healing can also be a problem.

In some patients, we can obtain early motion with less casting, a lower refracture rate, and a faster return to sports by using intramedullary rods. Our pediatric orthopaedic surgeons have used titanium rods in difficult forearm fractures for over 5 years. The results have been very encouraging. Advantages can include less time in casts, faster healing, and less invasive surgery compared to techniques used in adults. This can mean better arm function for our patients.