Fracture of the neck of femur in childhood.

Fractures of the neck of femur under the age of 14 years are so rare that few surgeons have much experience with them. Hamilton (1961) predicted that an orthopaedic surgeon would see one case in a lifetime, Quinlan et al (1980) reviewing the literature from 1885 when the first case was reported, say that it is 130 to 200 times less common than in adults. They found the largest personal series to be that of Lam (1971) in Hong Kong. Quinlan et al review 11 cases seen in Dublin over a period of 18 years, from 1958-77. They state that severe complications are likely in these children, especially avascular necrosis of the head of femur, non-union, coxa vara, and premature closure of the femoral epiphysis.