Comparison of Techniques Used for Application of Hip Spica Cast to Treat Femoral Shaft Fractures in Children: Long-Term Follow-Up

After treatment using hip spica casts, femoral shaft fractures in children can appear well reduced in the operating room. However, the resulting bone length may quickly angulate or shorten. We describe a technique that places a well-molded hip spica cast to help decrease the risk of revision procedures and malunited fractures. We compared results of patients aged 1 to 6 years treated by one pediatric orthopaedic surgeon using the casting technique described (Group A, n = 25) to those treated by other orthopaedic surgeons who did not use the technique (Group B, n = 46). Although not statistically significant, results indicated less shortening and varus angulation in the patients who underwent the described casting technique. Findings of the current study may help guide and recommend this technique in treating children with femoral shaft fractures.