The use of bioabsorbables in the treatment of children's fractures

Bioabsorbable implants have specific benefit in the treatment of certain children's fractures that have a high rate of implant removal where rigid fixation is needed only temporarily, and where implant removal would be difficult or costly. The bioabsorbable implant materials most commonly used today are polylevolactic acid (PLLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and poly-p-dioxanone (PDS). A technique For the fixation of a distal humerus lateral condyle fracture with bioabsorbable pins is described. A technique for the fixation of a Salter Harris IV transphyseal ankle fracture using bioabsorbable screws is also described. Specific complications and pitfalls associated with bioabsorbable fixation such as loss of fixation, soft tissue reaction, and osteolysis are discussed.