WOFAPS 2025 8th World Congress of Pediatric Surgery

Gergo Jozsa, Tibor Molnar, Eniko Molnar, Anna Lamberti, Zoltan Toth

Department of Paediatrics, Division of Paediatric Surgery, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary

Biodegradable implants have seen an increase in application in pediatrics. Designed to naturally dissolve over time, they offer a promising alternative to traditional metal implants by reducing long-term complications. Initially limited to fixation of knee joint fractures—where the need for a material that could safely degrade as the bone heals was first recognized—since then, their application has expanded considerably. Today, these are effectively employed to treat fractures in the ankle and elbow joints. More recently, the use of these implants has extended to fractures in the forearm and wrist, further demonstrating their versatility and growing acceptance in pediatric orthopedics. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the indications for implants—from clavicle to ankle—and details the surgical techniques required for proper fixation. Illustrations are also offered for visual evidence of successful outcomes. A major advantage is their ability to offer results comparable to metal counterparts. Despite being newer, resorbable implants have proven equally effective and safe over the years. Their ability to dissolve naturally renders them a viable option for pediatric patients, minimizing the need for future surgical interventions. This process reduces the risk of infections, complications of removal, or foreign material reactions. In summary, resorbable implants represent an important advancement in the treatment of childhood fractures. Their expanding range of applications, from the clavicle to the ankle, along with the positive clinical outcomes associated with their use, positions them as a highly effective and less invasive alternative to traditional metal implants in pediatric fracture management.