Abstract Background: Pediatric forearm fractures are among the most frequent orthopedic injuries worldwide. While both conservative and surgical treatments are widely practiced, evidence guiding decision-making in resource-limited settings remains sparse. Objective: To compare the clinical and functional outcomes of conservative versus surgical treatment of pediatric forearm fractures in a lower-middle-income country (LMIC). Methods: In this prospective cohort study conducted at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, children with forearm fractures were treated according to standardized protocols reflecting both clinical indications and local resource availability. The outcomes assessed included radiographic union, range of motion, and complication rates. Results: Conservative treatment was significantly associated with a shorter time to fracture union. The active forearm range of pronation and supination at 6 months was satisfactory in both groups, with surgical patients experiencing a greater loss of forearm pronation, which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Conservative treatment remains a viable and cost-effective strategy for managing pediatric forearm fractures in LMICs, emphasizing the importance of context-sensitive orthopedic care. Significance: This study provides critical data to guide treatment pathways in the resource-constrained environments and supports the development of localized orthopedic guidelines for pediatric populations.
Abu et al. (Thu,) studied this question.