Femur Fracture: Functional Bracing vs. Hip Spica Cast

The study will generate five standardized sized braces based on measurements from prior scans that will be stocked at each institution and modified by the local orthotist to fit the needs of each patient. This will facilitate expedited care while obtaining the same clinical and radiographic results as the fully customized braces. This idea has the potential to be extrapolated to the wider clinical community, creating a true shift in pediatric orthopaedic clinical practice throughout the country.

Traditional spica casts, the current standard of care for diaphyseal femoral shaft fractures with minimal shortening in children age 0-5 years old. Although spica cast immobilization is standard of care for femur fractures in young children, caring for a child in a spica cast presents a significant socioeconomic burden on families and the healthcare system. Basic hygiene and transportation for a child in a spica cast requires burdensome adjustments for caretakers, as well as the added expenses of specialized car seats or transportation services. Improper spica cast care can lead to skin complications, additional visits for cast adjustments, or even revision casting in the operating room.