Supracondylar Fractures of the Humerus in Children

Elbow Pain After a Fall: Nursemaid's Elbow or Fracture?

Nursemaid's elbow and elbow fractures are both common causes of acute elbow pain, but the mechanism of injury is quite different. In children, falls frequently go unwitnessed and children are often inaccurate when recounting the sequences of a fall, making the mechanism difficult to ascertain. A common clinical mistake is to treat all elbow injuries as a nursemaid's elbow. When the mechanism of injury is unknown, radiographs should be used to help make the diagnosis. Occult fractures, also known as "hairline" elbow fractures, may not be visible on initial X-rays, but clues to the diagnosis, especially the posterior fat pad, can be helpful in evaluation. When an occult fracture is suspected based on history and radiographic findings, the patient's elbow should be immobilized, not manipulated. This article also reviews successful reduction maneuvers for nursemaid's elbow. [Pediatr Ann. 2016;45(6):e214-e217.].

Complications of Pediatric Elbow Fractures

Fractures about the elbow in children are common and varied. Both diagnosis and treatment can be challenging, and optimal treatment protocols continue to evolve with new research data. This article reviews common complications related to pediatric elbow fractures and presents recent literature to help guide treatment.

Crossed Wires Versus 2 Lateral Wires in Management of Supracondylar Fracture of the Humerus in Children in the Hands of Junior Trainees

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the outcome of the crossed and the lateral pin configurations in the management of supracondylar humeral fractures in children in the hands of junior trainees.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Level I Trauma Center.

PATIENTS

Sixty children with supracondylar humeral fractures. The mean age was 5.1 years (1.5-9 years). The minimum follow-up period was 6 months, with no patients lost to follow up.

INTERVENTION

Thirty patients were managed by crossed and 30 by the lateral method. All surgeries were performed by junior trainees in their first 3 years of training.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Postoperative stability, ulnar nerve injury, range of motions, and pin tract infection.

RESULTS

The crossed configuration was stable in all the patients, whereas the lateral method was less stable in 20% of the cases because the distal fragment rotated in 5 patients and posteriorly displaced in 1 patient. The difference was statistically significant with a P value of 0.031. Ulnar nerve neurapraxia occurred in 1 patient from the lateral group and it recovered in the fourth month, whereas no ulnar nerve injury occurred in the crossed configuration group. Two patients in the lateral group lost approximately 100 of elbow flexion.

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective randomized controlled trial showed that the crossed pin configuration method provided more stability than the lateral pin configuration, especially, in the hands of junior trainees in their first 3 years of training, and the difference was statistically significant.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Increased pin diameter improves torsional stability in supracondylar humerus fractures: an experimental study

BACKGROUND

Pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common elbow fractures seen in children, and account for 16 % of all pediatric fractures. Closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation is the current treatment technique of choice for displaced supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus in children. The purpose of this study was to determine whether pin diameter affects the torsional strength of supracondylar humerus fractures treated by closed reduction and pin fixation.

METHODS

Pediatric sawbone humeri simulating a Gartland type III fracture were utilized. Four different pin configurations were compared. Specimens were subjected to a torsional load producing internal rotation of the distal fragment. The stability provided by 1.25- and 1.6-mm pins was compared.

RESULTS

The amount of torque required to produce 15° and 25° of rotation was greater using larger diameter pins in all models tested. The two lateral and one medial large pin (1.6 mm) configuration required the highest amount of torque to produce both 15° and 25° of rotation.

CONCLUSIONS

In a synthetic pediatric humerus model of supracondylar humerus fractures, larger diameter pins (1.6 mm) provided increased stability compared with small diameter pins (1.25 mm). Fixation using larger diameter pins created a stronger construct and improved the strength of fixation.

Stiffness of various pin configurations for pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture: a systematic review on biomechanical studies

To compare the biomechanical stability of various pin configurations for pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures under varus, internal rotation, and extension conditions. After electronic retrieval, 11 biomechanical studies were included. Stiffness values of pin configurations under different loading conditions were extracted and pooled. There were no statistically significant differences between two cross pins and two divergent lateral pins on the basis of the 'Hamdi method' (P=0.249-0.737). An additional pin did not strengthen two-pin construct (P=0.124-0.367), but better stabilized fractures with medial comminution (P<0.01). Isolated lateral pins are preferable because of a better balance of a lower risk of nerve injury and comparable fixation strength. Limitations such as differences in experimental setup among recruited studies and small sample size may compromise the methodologic power of this study.

The Outcome of Surgical Treatment of Multidirectionally Unstable (Type IV) Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

BACKGROUND

The outcome of multidirectionally unstable (type IV) supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHF) has been rarely described. We aimed to describe several aspects related to the diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of this complex injury.

METHODS

We analyzed the clinical and radiographic data on 130 completely displaced SCHF in children, which was collected prospectively over a 6-year period (2007 to 2013), as part of an IRB-approved study. A minimum follow-up of 6 weeks was required. We compared the outcome of type IV SCHF (n=12, group 1) with that of type III SCHF (n=118, group 2) by assessing the need for open reduction, length of operative time, recovery of range of motion (as compared with the normal, contralateral side), and rate of complications.

RESULTS

An open reduction was required in 17% and 2% of fractures in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P=0.04). A medial pin was added to supplement the fixation in 42% and 17% of fractures in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P=0.05). An acceptable reduction was obtained in all fractures. Surgery was longer for fractures in group 1, by a mean of 22 minutes (P=0.0001). No patient in either group required a reoperation. There was no significant difference between groups with respect to the latest range of motion of the treated side, as compared with the normal contralateral side (98% vs. 97%, respectively, P=0.4). Satisfactory outcomes were found in 92% and 98% of patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P=0.6).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that a satisfactory outcome can be expected when treating type IV SCHF in a child. Although these fractures are associated with increased levels of technical difficulty, given the increased need for open reduction, utilization of medial pins, and longer surgical times, adequate reductions and satisfactory mid-term to long-term outcomes can be achieved.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

The outcome of early revision of malaligned pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHF) are the most common elbow fractures requiring surgical treatment in the pediatric age group. Most fractures are reduced and stabilised adequately. Yet, post-surgical malunion may occur. The purpose of this study is to evaluate our results of early revision surgery in 21 surgically treated pediatric SCHF with immediate postoperative loss of alignment and compare them with previous reports of late corrective osteotomies.

METHODS

Twenty-one pediatric SCHF patients that underwent revision surgery for malalignment within 3 weeks of the initial reduction and fixation consisted the study group. Indications for revision were unacceptable radiographic alignment diagnosed within the first 3 weeks after the index surgery. Clinical outcome included pain, range of motion (ROM) and appearance of the elbow. Radiographic outcome was defined as fracture healing and final alignment, assessed in both coronal and sagittal planes.

RESULTS

The average time interval between index and revision surgery was 7.6 days (range 3-18). In revision surgery, closed reduction was performed in 17 out of 21 patients, and open reduction was required in four. In one patient, an external fixator was added. In the most recent follow up, all patients but three regained full ROM. The remaining three had a deficit of 10° or less. Two patients had cubitus varus of 10° or less. All patients had a marked radiographic improvement after revision, especially in the sagittal plane increasing the humero-capitaller flexion angle by an average of 20°.

DISCUSSION

Malunion after reduction and Kirschner wires (KW) fixation of SCHF is an uncommonly reported phenomenon. When malunion is recognised after fracture healing, corrective osteotomies may carry a significant complications rate. We describe our favourable experience with early diagnosis and revision surgery of malaligned SCHF.

Rotation and Displacement Predict Adverse Events in Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures

The goal of this study was to identify supracondylar fracture patterns that were predictive of adverse events and poor outcomes. The study consisted of a retrospective review of patients admitted for surgical treatment of a supracondylar humerus fracture between June 2008 and August 2010. Preoperative radiographs were assessed based on appearance (simple vs oblique vs comminuted), coronal plane displacement (angulated, posterior, posteromedial vs posterolateral), and rotation (rotation vs no rotation). Logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between fracture pattern and clinical outcome parameters in 373 patients who were followed for 4 weeks or more postoperatively. Outcome parameters included postoperative complications (infection, delayed healing, pin migration, revision surgery), need for physical or occupational therapy, need for postoperative intravenous narcotics, and preoperative nerve injury. Rotation and coronal displacement patterns of the fracture segments were significantly associated with postoperative complications, postoperative need for physical or occupational therapy as a result of residual stiffness, and nerve injury (P<.05). Compared with posteriorly displaced fractures, posterolaterally displaced fractures were associated with significantly greater odds of complications (P=.045), need for physical or occupational therapy (P<.001), and nerve injury (P<.001). Additionally, fractures with rotation were associated with significantly greater odds of complications (P<.001), need for physical or occupational therapy (P<.001), and nerve injury (P<.001) compared with fractures without rotation. Rotation and coronal plane displacement were predictive of complications, need for physical or occupational therapy, and nerve injury, and thus should be considered as potential prognostic variables when evaluating the initial injury pattern.

Displaced supracondylar humeral fractures: influence of delay of surgery on the incidence of open reduction, complications and outcome

BACKGROUND

Closed reduction and pinning is the accepted treatment choice for dislocated supracondylar humeral fractures in children (SCHF). Rates of open reduction, complications and outcome are reported to be dependent on delay of surgery. We investigated whether delay of surgery had influence on the incidence of open reduction, complications and outcome of surgical treatment of SCHFs in the authors' institution.

METHODS

Three hundred and forty-one children with 343 supracondylar humeral fractures (Gartland II: 144; Gartland III: 199) who underwent surgery between 2000 and 2009 were retrospectively analysed. The group consisted of 194 males and 149 females. The average age was 6.3 years. Mean follow-up was 6.2 months. Time interval between trauma and surgical intervention was determined using our institutional database. Clinical and radiographical data were collected for each group. Influence of delay of treatment on rates of open reduction, complications and outcome was calculated using logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, patients were grouped into 4 groups of delay (<6 h, n = 166; 6-12 h, n = 95; 12-24 h, n = 68; >24 h, n = 14) and the aforementioned variables were compared among these groups.

RESULTS

The incidence of open procedures in 343 supracondylar humeral fractures was 2.6 %. Complication rates were similar to the literature (10.8 %) primarily consisting of transient neurological impairments (9.0 %) which all were fully reversible by conservative treatment. Poor outcome was seen in 1.7 % of the patients. Delay of surgical treatment had no influence on rates of open surgery (p = 0.662), complications (p = 0.365) or poor outcome (p = 0.942).

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective study delay of treatment of SCHF did not have significant influence on the incidence of open reduction, complications, and outcome. Therefore, in SCHF with sufficient blood perfusion and nerve function, elective treatment is reasonable to avoid surgical interventions in the middle of the night which are stressful and wearing both for patients and for surgeons.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III (retrospective comparative study).

Potential causes of loss of reduction in supracondylar humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

Recent biomechanical studies have evaluated the stability of various pin constructs for supracondylar humerus fractures, but limited data exist evaluating these constructs with clinical outcomes. The goal of this study was to review the surgical management of Gartland type II and III supracondylar fractures to see whether certain pin configurations increase the likelihood of loss of reduction (LOR).

METHODS

A total of 192 patients treated with a displaced supracondylar fracture were evaluated. LOR was defined as a change >10 degrees in either plane from its intraoperative reduction. Fracture classification, comminution, and location were documented. Intraoperative films were assessed for number of pins, location of pins both medial and lateral, bicortical purchase, pin spread at the fracture site, and pin divergence.

RESULTS

Ninety-four patients had type II fractures, and 98 had type III fractures. The average patient age was 5.7±2.3 years. Extension-type injuries represented 98% of fractures. LOR was noted in 4.2% of patients. Age (P=0.48) and sex (P=0.61) were not associated with LOR. Fracture characteristics including type (P=0.85), comminution (P=0.99), and location (P=0.88) were not associated with LOR. Fractures treated with lateral-entry pins only or with 2 pins were no more likely to lose reduction (P=0.88 and 0.91). Pin spread at the fracture site was associated with LOR with less spread increasing the likelihood of failure (P=0.02). Fractures that lost reduction had an average pin spread of 9.7 mm [95% confidence interval (CI), 6.3-13.2) or 28% (95% CI, 26-31) of the humerus width compared with 13.7 mm (95% CI, 13-14.4) or 36% (95% CI, 13-60) of the humerus width for those that remained aligned.

CONCLUSIONS

LOR after percutaneous fixation of supracondylar fractures occurs relatively infrequently at a rate of 4.2%. This study suggests that pin spread is an important factor associated with preventing LOR with a goal of pin spacing at least 13 mm or 1/3 the width of the humerus at the level of the fracture.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Retrospective study; level II.

Management of the pulseless pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture

A pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture with a pulseless, poorly perfused hand requires emergency operative reduction. If the limb remains pulseless and poorly perfused after fracture fixation, vascular exploration and possible reconstruction is necessary. A pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture with a pulseless, well-perfused hand should be treated urgently with operative fixation of the fracture and subsequent reassessment of the vascular status. Controversy exists regarding the optimal management of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures with a pulseless, well-perfused hand following anatomic reduction and fixation. Options include immediate vascular exploration or twenty-four to forty-eight hours of inpatient observation. If perfusion is compromised during this period of observation, an emergency return to the operating room for vascular exploration and possible reconstruction is indicated.

Arthroscopic Correction of a Supracondylar Malunion in a Child

Malunions are a well-recognized complication of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures. Results of corrective osteotomies vary, and complication rates have been reported to be as high as 40%. Considering the high rate of complications for malunion correction, we investigated the feasibility of arthroscopy. We present a technique for arthroscopic supracondylar osteotomy and percutaneous pinning. There are many advantages of an arthroscopic approach to malunion correction, including extension-type deformity correction, safe access to the anterior humerus, and minimal dissection and scarring; any intracapsular contracture can be addressed as well. Elbow arthroscopy appears to be a viable option in the pediatric orthopaedic surgeon's armamentarium.

Results of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation after a mean 22.4 years of follow-up

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term functional and cosmetic results as well as the sagittal and coronal plane remodeling of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation.

METHODS

In total, 49 patients (11 boys and 38 girls) with Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fractures treated with open reduction and cross-pin fixation were retrospectively evaluated. The mean follow-up time was 22.4 years (range, 10.6-37.5 years). The Flynn criteria were used to assess the cosmetic and functional outcomes. Baumann's angle, the lateral rotational percentage, the humerus-elbow-wrist angle, and the humeral condylar angle were obtained from follow-up radiographs. The flexion and extension deficits compared with the uninjured side were measured at the last follow-up.

RESULTS

According to the Flynn criteria, the cosmetic outcomes were satisfactory in 93.9% of the patients, and the functional outcomes were satisfactory in 83.7% of the patients. The average flexion deficit was 5° ± 8°, and the average extension deficit was 4° ± 5°. At the final follow-up, the mean difference in the humerus-elbow-wrist angle and the humeral condylar angle between the injured and uninjured sides was -4° ± 7° and 0° ± 3°.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified the remodeling in the sagittal plane in supracondylar humerus fractures that had been united in flexion. Satisfactory functional and cosmetic results were obtained with the open reduction and internal fixation of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus, and no degenerative changes were observed at the long-term follow-up.

Evaluation and management of pulseless pink/pale hand syndrome coexisting with supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children

Elbow region fractures are the most common injuries in children. Among them, supracondylar fractures of the humerus are the most frequent. Massive displacement of the fractured bone causes severe injury to the soft tissue of that particular region. As a result, various types of injuries to the brachial artery such as entrapment, laceration, spasm of the vessel, and the presence of an intimal tear or thrombus formation are usually observed. The main goal of this study was to present our approach to children with supracondylar humerus fractures associated with brachial artery injuries. We would especially like to emphasize the necessity for other conservative or operative treatment concerning pulseless hand symptoms coexisting with supracondylar fractures of the humeral bone in children population. Data from 67 children were evaluated in our study. Supracondylar fractures were classified according to the Gartland's scale. All patients had displaced extension type III injuries. During our follow-up study, we used Flynn's grading system to evaluate functions of the elbow joint, forearm and wrist. Mean follow-up was 18 months; range, 13 months to 4 years. In the follow-up study, very good or good results were achieved in all 32 patients treated conservatively together with 6 patients with pulseless pink hand symptom. Very good or good results were achieved in 88% of 35 patients operated on. Children who, after satisfactory closed reduction, have a well-perfused hand but absent radial pulse do not necessarily require routine exploration of the brachial artery. Conservative treatment should be applied unless additional signs of vascular compromise appear. Thus, exploration of the cubital fossa should be performed only if circulation is not restored by closed reduction.

Triple modified French osteotomy: a possible answer to cubitus varus deformity. A technical note

BACKGROUND

Cubitus varus is the most common delayed complication of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. We developed a new technique, the triple modified French osteotomy, that we believe may be the answer to this common but yet unsolved deformity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten patients aged between 6 and 12 years with post-traumatic cubitus varus deformity were operated on with the triple modified French technique. A varus angle of more than 10° measured on the radiograph was an indication for surgery.

RESULTS

The radiologic union at the osteotomy site took place in a mean period of 5.5 weeks (range, 4.5-7 weeks). The average correction achieved by the osteotomy was 27°. There were no cases with complications of radial or ulnar nerve palsy or joint stiffness.

CONCLUSION

The triple modified lateral closing wedge French osteotomy is a simple and cosmetically effective method of treating cubitus varus deformity in children. It may obviate the need for more complex procedures; at the same time, it also addresses the potential drawbacks of a simple closing wedge osteotomy.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of displaced Supracondylar Fractures of Humerus with Crossed K-wires via Medial Approach

This study aimed at evaluating the medial approach for open reduction and internal fixation of Gartland type 3 displaced supracondylar fractures of humerus in children. A prospective, single centre study of on displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in 42 children was carried out at our institute. All fractures were managed with open reduction and internal fixation with crossed K-wires via medial approach. The mean follow-up was 12 months and patients were assessed according to Flynn’s criteria. No patients had post-operative ulnar nerve injury. Cubitus varus was not seen in any patient. Superficial pin tract infection occurred in three patients that subsided with anti-septic dressings and antibiotics. No deep infection occurred. 88.09 % patients showed satisfactory results as per Flynn’s criteria. The medial approach provides an excellent view of the supracondylar area. The approach is convenient due to a lower risk for ulnar nerve injury and better acceptability of the medial incisional scar.

The Effect of C-Arm Position on Radiation Exposure During Fixation of Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures of the Humerus

BACKGROUND

Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of a pediatric supracondylar fracture of the humerus requires operating directly next to the C-arm to hold reduction and perform fixation under direct imaging. This study was designed to compare radiation exposure from two C-arm configurations: with the image intensifier serving as the operating surface, and with a radiolucent hand table serving as the operating surface and the image intensifier positioned above the table.

METHODS

We used a cadaveric specimen in this study to determine radiation exposure to the operative elbow and to the surgeon at the waist and neck levels during simulated closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of a pediatric supracondylar fracture of the humerus. Radiation exposure measurements were made (1) with the C-arm image intensifier serving as the operating surface, with the emitter positioned above the operative elbow; and (2) with the image intensifier positioned above a hand table, with the emitter below the table.

RESULTS

When the image intensifier was used as the operating surface, we noted 16% less scatter radiation at the waist level of the surgeon but 53% more neck-level scatter radiation compared with when the hand table was used as the operating surface and the image intensifier was positioned above the table. In terms of direct radiation exposure to the operative elbow, use of the image intensifier as the operating surface resulted in 21% more radiation exposure than from use of the other configuration. The direct radiation exposure was also more than two orders of magnitude greater than the neck and waist-level scatter radiation exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditionally, there has been concern over increased radiation exposure when the C-arm image intensifier is used as an operating surface, with the emitter above, compared with when the image intensifier is positioned above the operating surface, with the emitter below. We determined that, although there was a statistically significant difference in radiation exposure between the two configurations, neither was safer than the other at all tested levels.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In contrast to traditional teaching regarding radiation exposure, neither C-arm configuration-with the image intensifier serving as the operating surface or with the image intensifier positioned above a radiolucent hand table-was shown to be clearly safer for pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture fixation.

Open reduction and pinning for the treatment of Gartland extension type III supracondylar humeral fractures in children

In this study, we aim to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of children who were treated with four different surgical approaches. In our clinics between February 2004 and November 2012, the children who underwent surgical treatment for supracondylar humeral fractures and whose data were available with regular follow-up of at least 1 year were included in the study. Clinical outcomes were evaluated for 54 patients with Gartland type 3 extension supracondylar fractures. Functional and cosmetic results of the patients were determined according to the Flynn criteria. Mean age of the patients was 4.9 (between 2 and 14) among which 26 of them were girls and 28 were boys. Mean operation time was 45 (35-85) min. Average length of hospital stay (LHS) was 2.9 (1-7) days. Average duration of splints was 3.5 (2-6) weeks, while the average removal period of the wires was 4.6 (3-8) weeks. Mean consolidation time was 4.6 weeks (3-8). Mean follow-up was 14.36 months. In our study, we performed 54 patients functional and cosmetic results. While 48 of the patients had satisfying results (excellent, good, or fair), six of them had unsatisfactory (poor) results. The results of this study suggest that clinical results with surgical treatment of Gartland type 3 extension fractures were satisfactory. However, the delay in the surgical treatment may cause a number of complications.

Is medial pin use safe for treating pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures?

OBJECTIVES

We present a group of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures in whom a medial pin was inserted, in addition to lateral-entry pins, and compared it with a group that was treated with lateral-only entry pins. We evaluated differences in the rate of complications related to the insertion of the medial pin.

DESIGN

Prospective nonrandomized.

SETTING

Level II academic center.

METHODS

The data on 291 pediatric was analyzed. Patients in group 1 (n = 47) were treated with a combination of 2 lateral-entry pins and 1 medial-entry pin, whereas patients in group 2 (n = 244) were treated with lateral-only entry pins alone. Information related to the injury and surgical procedure was prospectively collected. The length of surgery, amount of pin separation at the fracture site, presence of neurological complications, pin tract infection, loss of fixation, final carrying angle, and range of motion were recorded.

RESULTS

Fracture severity was similar in both groups (P = 0.6). Medial column comminution was identified preoperatively in all fractures in group 1 and in 10% of fractures in group 2. Length of surgery was a mean of 21 minutes longer for patients in group 1 (P < 0.00001). There were no iatrogenic nerve injuries, vascular complications, or compartment syndromes in either group. The use of a medial-entry pin significantly increased the amount of pin separation at the fracture site (P < 0.00001). The percentage of satisfactory results was similar in both groups (P = 0.6).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that the use of a medial-entry pin for the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures is safe, if an adequate technique is followed. Although insertion of medial pins leads to longer surgeries, it does not seem to result in higher incidence of complications.

Ulnar nerve monitoring during percutaneous pinning of supracondylar fractures in children

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children are frequently managed by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Insertion of medial and lateral pins is more stable than lateral pinning alone, but carries an increased risk for ulnar nerve damage. This study describes the use of electrical stimulation concurrent with medial pin insertion as a monitoring technique for avoiding iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on 138 children, mean age 5.6 years (SD±2.5), who were admitted to the hospital between 2007 and 2010 with uncomplicated supracondylar fractures, Gartland type II and above, and intact neurovascular presentation. The location of the ulnar nerve was identified and marked preoperatively by observing twitch contractions in response to electrical stimulation. The medial pin served as an active electrode during pin insertion, and repeated stimulation throughout the insertion process ensured no contact with the response of the ulnar nerve. After pin insertion, ulnar nerve stimulation was used again to ensure nerve continuity viability.

RESULTS

All fractures were stabilized with 2 to 4 cross K-wires (size 1.6 mm), with number depending on stability of the fracture. The children were discharged home 2 days after fracture fixation, with no iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury observed in any of the children. The only postoperative complication involved 2 cases of anterior interosseus nerve neuropraxia, which resolved spontaneously after 4 to 6 months. Primary fracture healing was achieved without nonunions or delayed unions in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Ulnar nerve stimulation before and during the percutaneous pinning of supracondylar fractures in children is a simple, economical, and easy-to-implement technique that can prevent iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures: epidemiology, mechanisms and incidence during school holidays

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of paediatric patients sustaining supracondylar humeral fractures, to identify common mechanisms of injury and to corroborate the anecdotal evidence that fractures occur more frequently during school holidays.

METHODS

All paediatric patients who presented to the accident and emergency department with a supracondylar distal humerus fracture over the 3-year period from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2011 were included in the study. Data were collected from the electronic medical records and radiology picture archiving and communication system (PACS) regarding age at injury, sex, Gartland type, date of injury, mechanism and management. The dates of all school holidays during the study period were obtained from the local education authority website.

RESULTS

A total of 159 patients were identified, with a median age of 6 years 1 month (range 1 year to 14 years 4 months); 53 % of patients were male. The 155 extension-type injuries comprised 46, 28 and 26 % Gartland I, II and III fractures, respectively. Sixty-five patients (41 %) were treated operatively. Six patients had either neurological and/or vascular complications; however, none had any long-term neurological compromise and none required vascular surgical intervention. The mechanism of injury was recorded in 118 cases, the majority (37 %) of which were sustained during falls from play equipment. Among the patients, 115 were of school age. The weekly incidence during school holidays was significantly higher than that during term-time (1.16 vs. 0.60, p = 0.0005).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the epidemiology of paediatric supracondylar fractures managed at a district general hospital over a 3-year-period. This work supports the long-standing anecdotal evidence that play equipment carries a high risk of injury and that the incidence of supracondylar fractures is significantly higher during school holidays.

Assessment of the normal and pathological alignment of the elbow in children using the trochleocapitellar index

Background

The current research is a retrospective study that involves the description of a new trochleocapitellar index (TCI), on basis of anteroposterior (AP) radiographs of normal and fractured paediatric elbows. This index may be useful in assessing the alignment of the elbow with a supracondylar fracture.

Methods

The index was evaluated to define its normal and pathological range in children between the ages of 1–13 years. A total of 212 elbows in 141 children were radiographically evaluated. 70 children without fracture elbows were evaluated by radiographs taken at the time of trauma. 35 children with unilateral fractures that healed in a normal alignment were compared to 33 patients that had a mal-union and three patients with bilateral elbow fractures. The patients were radiographically assessed at the time of fracture as well as after fracture healing as part of a routine clinical assessment. Treatment included observation, cast or internal fixation as needed.

Results

The current study establishes that the normal range of the TCI was 0.25-0.8. The average TCI is 0.45. The lower range correlates with a valgus alignment of the elbow while the higher range indicates a neutral alignment. The TCI in fractured elbows that have healed in a clinically normal alignment is different than the contra-lateral elbow’s TCI. This might indicate a sub-clinical remaining deformity.

Conclusions

In current practice, paediatric patients with elbow trauma, often undergo bilateral radiographs during emergency room visits. The TCI has high negative and positive predictive values and might be superior to direct angle measurement that is currently in use. The use of the TCI measurement is expected to reduce exposure to irradiation in elbow trauma patients as bilateral comparative films appear to be superfluous when this measurement is used.

Obesity and its effects on pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures

BACKGROUND

This study evaluates the effects of childhood obesity on fracture complexity and associated injuries in pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures.

METHODS

A billing query identified all patients who were two to eleven years of age and had undergone operative treatment for extension-type supracondylar humeral fractures over a 12.5-year period. Records were reviewed for demographic data, body mass index percentile, and injury data. Complex fractures were defined as type-3 supracondylar humeral fractures, supracondylar humeral fractures with intercondylar extension, or supracondylar humeral fractures with ipsilateral upper-extremity fractures. Logistic regression analyses were used to test relationships among body mass index subgroups, fracture complexity, elbow motion, preoperative and postoperative neurovascular status, and complications.

RESULTS

Three hundred and fifty-four patients met our inclusion criteria. Forty-one children were underweight (BMI in the <5th percentile), 182 were normal weight (BMI in the 5th to 85th percentile), sixty-three were overweight (BMI in the >85th to 95th percentile), and sixty-eight were obese (BMI in the >95th percentile). There were 149 patients, eleven of whom were obese, with isolated type-2 fractures and 205 patients, fifty-seven of whom were obese, with complex fractures. Thirty-two patients had preoperative nerve palsies and twenty-eight patients had postoperative nerve palsies. Using logistic regression, obesity was associated with complex fractures (odds ratio, 9.19 [95% confidence interval, 4.25 to 19.92]; p < 0.001), preoperative nerve palsies (odds ratio, 2.69 [95% confidence interval, 1.15 to 6.29]; p = 0.02), postoperative nerve palsies (odds ratio, 7.69 [95% confidence interval, 2.66 to 22.31]; p < 0.001), and postoperative complications (odds ratio, 4.03 [95% confidence interval, 1.72 to 9.46]; p < 0.001). Additionally, obese patients were more likely to sustain complex fractures from a fall on an outstretched hand than normal-weight patients (odds ratio, 13.00 [95% confidence interval, 3.44 to 49.19]; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with more complex supracondylar humeral fractures, preoperative and postoperative nerve palsies, and postoperative complications. To our knowledge, this study is the first to assess the implications of obesity on supracondylar humeral fracture complexity and associated injuries and it validates public health efforts in combating childhood obesity.

Biomechanical analysis of posterior intrafocal pin fixation for the pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture

BACKGROUND

Controversy remains regarding the optimal fixation for displaced pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures. The clinical results of a recently described technique using a posterior intrafocal pin have been good to excellent. The aim of our study was to compare, in a cadaveric model, the stiffness provided by posterior intrafocal pin fixation versus crossed medial and lateral pin fixation and divergent lateral entry pin fixation for the treatment of Gartland-Wilkins type 3 supracondylar humeral fractures.

METHODS

In 15 pairs of nonosteoporotic adult cadaver specimens, simulated Gartland-Wilkins type 3 supracondylar fractures were created and stabilized using: (1) the posterior intrafocal pin method; (2) medial and lateral crossed pins; or (3) 2 divergent lateral entry pins. Specimens were then subjected to internal rotation to measure the fixation stiffness of each construct. The effects of treatment and cycle number on torsional stiffness and peak torque were assessed for significance using a linear regression model with random effects to account for specimen pairing. Significance was set at P<0.05.

RESULTS

The stiffest fixation was provided by crossed pins (2.4 N m/degree), followed by divergent lateral pins (1.9 N m/degree) and the posterior intrafocal pin (1.9 N m/degree), but none of the differences was statistically significant (P>0.9). Peak torque was not significantly different between fixations, although the trend suggested that crossed pins were strongest (34.6 N m), followed by divergent lateral pins (30.3 N m) and then posterior intrafocal pin fixation (26.1 N m).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that posterior intrafocal pin fixation offers resistance to internal rotation equivalent to that of crossed medial and lateral pins and divergent lateral entry pins.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The current biomechanical study supports the use of the posterior intrafocal posterior Kirschner pin for rotationally unstable supracondylar fractures because it is not significantly more compliant than standard techniques.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Is lateral pin fixation for displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus better than crossed pins in children?

BACKGROUND

Closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation is considered standard management for displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. However, controversy exists regarding whether to use an isolated lateral entry or a crossed medial and lateral pinning technique.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare (1) the risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury caused by pin fixation, (2) the quality of fracture reduction in terms of the radiographic outcomes, and (3) function in terms of criteria of Flynn et al. and elbow ROM, and other surgical complications caused by pin fixation.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and other unpublished studies without language restriction. Seven RCTs involving 521 patients were included. Two authors independently assessed the methodologic quality of the included studies with use of the Detsky score. The median Detsky quality score of the included trials was 15.7 points. Dichotomous variables were presented as risk ratios (RRs) or risk difference with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and continuous data were measured as mean differences with 95% CI. Statistical heterogeneity between studies was formally tested with standard chi-square test and I(2) statistic. For the primary objective, a funnel plot of the primary end point and Egger's test were performed to detect publication bias.

RESULTS

The pooled RR suggested that iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury was higher with the crossed pinning technique than with the lateral entry technique (RR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.10-0.89). No publication bias was further detected. There were no statistical differences in radiographic outcomes, function, and other surgical complications. No significant heterogeneity was found in these pooled results.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the crossed pinning fixation is more at risk for iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury than the lateral pinning technique. Therefore, we recommend the lateral pinning technique for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.

[Open reduction and internal fixation of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. Analysis of results at ten-year of follow-up]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long term results of the surgical treatment by means of open reduction and internal fixation of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in a paediatric population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Descriptive retrospective study conducted between 1996-2003, which included 21 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of displaced, supracondylar humerus fractures according to the Gartland classification, which were irreducible by closed methods. The patients were clinically evaluated according to the Flynn criteria (functional and cosmetic). Data collection also included postoperative radiological evaluation, range of movement, the presence of post-operative complications, and a questionnaire on satisfaction with treatment received. The mean age of the patients was 5.8 years. Mean follow-up was 11.52 years.

RESULTS

The average post-operative Baumann angle was 17.6°. Final loss of flexion averaged 5.1° (range: 0-20°), and loss of extension 0.71° (range: 0-10°), with 90% of patients demonstrating an elbow range of movement within normal limits. According to the Flynn criteria, functional and cosmetic results were satisfactory in 85.5%. Superficial wound infection and metal work migration were the most common post-operative complications. At the final follow-up all patients, except two, were very happy with the result, and no patient complained of difficulties in carrying out normal living activities or their favourite sports.

CONCLUSIONS

In cases of unsatisfactory reduction or failure to maintain a stable closed reduction, open reduction and internal fixation demonstrates equivalent results to closed procedures.

Childhood obesity as a risk factor for lateral condyle fractures over supracondylar humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

Obese children reportedly have an increased risk of sustaining musculoskeletal injuries compared with their normal-weight peers. Obese children are at greater risk for sustaining fractures of the forearm, particularly from low-energy mechanisms. Furthermore, obesity is a risk factor for sustaining an extremity fracture requiring surgery. However, it is unclear what role obesity plays in fractures about the distal humerus.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We therefore asked whether (1) children who sustain lateral condyle (LC) fractures have a higher body mass index (BMI) as compared with those with supracondylar (SC) humerus fractures; and (2) children with a higher BMI sustain more severe fractures regardless of fracture pattern.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 992 patients: 230 with LC injuries and 762 with SC fractures. We determined BMI and BMI-for-age percentiles. Fracture types were classified by the systems proposed by Weiss et al. (LC fractures) and Wilkins (SC fractures).

RESULTS

The LC group had both a higher mean BMI and BMI-for-age percentile than the SC group as well as had more obese patients (37% versus 19%). Within the LC group, children with Type 3 fractures had a higher BMI that those with Type 1 fractures (19 versus 17). There was a higher percentage of obese patients with Type 3 LC fractures compared with Type 1 and 2 fractures (44% versus 27% and 26%). Among patients with SC fractures, there was no difference among the BMI, BMI-for-age percentiles, or percentage of obese children when analyzed by fracture subtype.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity places a child at greater risk for sustaining a LC fracture and when these fractures occur, they are often more severe injuries compared with those in nonobese children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prognostic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Postoperative radiographs after pinning of supracondylar humerus fractures: are they necessary?

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the necessity of early postoperative radiographs after pinning of supracondylar humerus fractures by determining both the percentage of patients who displayed change in fracture fixation and whether these changes affected their outcome.

METHODS

A series of 643 consecutive patients who underwent operative management of Gartland type II and III fractures at our institution between January 2002 and December 2010 were reviewed. Demographic data were obtained through chart review, including age, sex, extremity, fracture type, and mechanism. Intraoperative fluoroscopic images were compared with postoperative radiographs to identify changes in fracture alignment and pin placement.

RESULTS

A total of 643 patients (320 females, 323 males) with a mean age of 6.1 years (range, 1.1 to 16.0) were reviewed. Fifty-seven percent of fractures were classified as type II and 43% were type III. The overall complication rate was 8.8% (57/643). Pin backout or fracture translation was seen in 32 patients (4.9%) at the first postoperative visit. All of these patients sustained type III fractures. One of these patients required further operative management. Patients with changes in pin or fracture alignment did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in time to first postoperative visit (P=0.23), days to pin removal (P=0.07), or average follow-up time (P=0.10). Fracture severity did not correlate with change in alignment (P=0.952). No postoperative neurological complications were observed in patients with alignment changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Mild alignment changes and pin migration observed in postoperative radiographs after pinning of supracondylar humerus fractures have little effect on clinical management parameters or long-term sequelae. Radiographs can therefore be deferred until the time of pin removal provided adequate intraoperative stability was obtained.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Type II supracondylar humerus fractures: can some be treated nonoperatively?

BACKGROUND

The range of injury severity that can be seen within the category of type II supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHFs) raises the question whether some could be treated nonoperatively. However, the clinical difficulty in using this approach lies in determining which type II SCHFs can be managed successfully without a surgical intervention.

METHODS

We reviewed clinical and radiographic information on 259 pediatric type II SCHFs that were enrolled in a prospective registry of elbow fractures. The characteristics of the patients who were treated without surgery were compared with those of patients who were treated surgically. Treatment outcomes, as assessed by the final clinical and radiographic alignment, range of motion of the elbow, and complications, were compared between the groups to define clinical and radiographic features that related to success or failure of nonoperative management.

RESULTS

During the course of treatment, 39 fractures were found to have unsatisfactory alignment with nonoperative management and were taken for surgery. Ultimately, 150 fractures (57.9%) were treated nonoperatively, and 109 fractures (42.1%) were treated surgically. At final follow-up, outcome measures of change in carrying angle, range of motion, and complications did not show clinically significant differences between treatment groups. Fractures without rotational deformity or coronal angulation and with a shaft-condylar angle of >15 degrees were more likely to be associated with successful nonsurgical treatment. A scoring system was developed using these features to stratify the severity of the injury. Patients with isolated extension deformity, but none of the other features, were more likely to complete successful nonoperative management.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that some of the less severe pediatric type II SCHFs can be successfully treated without surgery if close follow-up is achieved. Fractures with initial rotational deformity, coronal malalignment, and significant extension of the distal fragment are likely to fail a nonoperative approach. An algorithm using the initial radiographic characteristics can aid in distinguishing groups.

Radiographic assessment in the treatment of supracondylar humerus fractures in children

Introduction:

Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common fractures of the humerus at the elbow in children. The key role belongs to the age and immaturity of the humerus region. Treatment, even today represents the problem of bone and joint surgery. Gartland classification divides these fractures into four types. Analysis of radiographic parameters will serve as an indicator for treatment selection.

Goal:

To demonstrate the role of radiographic evaluation by measurement of default radiographic parameters and indicate the choice of treatment for supracondylar fractures of type I and II by Gartland.

Material and methods:

The study included 60 children aged 4-14 years, divided into two groups, first with initial radiographic analysis and the second one without radiographic analysis. All were treated at the Primary Health Care Center Novi Travnik and Nova Bila Hospital from 2009 to 2011. Analysis was performed using methods of descriptive statistics to calculate the mean and standard deviation, Student’s t-test and Chi-square test.

Results:

In patients from first group hospitalization, immobilization duration, as well as physical treatment was shorter and more frequently surgical treatment was applied (manual reduction with K-wire fixation) with statistically significant difference (p = 0.042).

Conclusion:

Radiographic evaluation is one way to choose methods of fracture treatment. The incidence of complications is low, with excellent outcome of treatment and a faster return of children to their daily activities.

Biomechanical analysis of pin placement for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures: does starting point, pin size, and number matter?

BACKGROUND

Several studies have examined the biomechanical stability of smooth wire fixation constructs used to stabilize pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. An analysis of varying pin size, number, and lateral starting points has not been performed previously.

METHODS

Twenty synthetic humeri were sectioned in the midolecranon fossa to simulate a supracondylar humerus fracture. Specimens were all anatomically reduced and pinned with a lateral-entry configuration. There were 2 main groups based on specific lateral-entry starting point (direct lateral vs. capitellar). Within these groups pin size (1.6 vs. 2.0 mm) and number of pins (2 vs. 3) were varied and the specimens biomechanically tested. Each construct was tested in extension, varus, valgus, internal, and external rotation. Data for fragment stiffness (N/mm or N mm/degree) were analyzed with a multivariate analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc analysis (P<0.05).

RESULTS

The capitellar starting point provided for increased stiffness in internal and external rotation compared with a direct lateral starting point (P<0.05). Two 2.0-mm pins were statistically superior to two 1.6-mm pins in internal and external rotation. There was no significant difference found comparing two versus three 1.6-mm pins.

CONCLUSIONS

The best torsional resistances were found in the capitellar starting group along with increased pin diameter. The capitellar starting point enables the surgeon to engage sufficient bone of the distal fragment and maximizes pin separation at the fracture site. In our anatomically reduced fracture model, the addition of a third pin provided no biomechanical advantage.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Consider a capitellar starting point for the more distally placed pin in supracondylar humerus fractures, and if the patient's size allows, a larger pin construct will provide improved stiffness with regard to rotational stresses.

Repair of supracondylar humerus fractures in children: does pin spread matter?

Supracondylar humerus fractures occur frequently in children and can be repaired by the lateral or crossed pinning technique, although the importance of pin divergence is unknown. A surgeon's experience using the crossed (N=46) and lateral (N=57) pinning technique was reviewed to determine whether the pin-spread ratio (PSR), the distance between the pins at fracture level divided by the fracture width, was associated with fixation loss. No association existed between the PSR and change in Baumann's angle for fractures repaired by lateral pinning, although one existed for type III fractures repaired with crossed pinning. The PSRs employed in pediatric supracondylar humerus repair appear sufficient for fixation.

Increased severity of type III supracondylar humerus fractures in the preteen population

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common operative fractures in children; however, no studies describe the older child with this injury. The purpose of this study was to compare Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fractures in children older than 8 years of age with those in younger children than age 8. We hypothesized that there would be more complications in older children, reflecting a higher-energy injury mechanism.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of supracondylar humerus fractures managed at a single level I pediatric trauma institution from 2004 to 2007 was performed. Patients with type III fractures were divided into groups based on age at presentation greater or less than 8. Baseline demographics, fracture characteristics, mechanism of injury, operative technique, and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

A consecutive series of 1297 pediatric patients with surgically treated supracondylar humerus fractures was retrospectively reviewed including 873 (67.3%) type III fractures. Of those, 160 (18.3%) patients were older than age 8 at time of injury. Older children were more likely to have fractures from high-energy mechanisms (45.1% vs. 28.7%, P<0.001) and more open fracture (3.8% vs. 1.3%, P=0.0097). There was no difference in preoperative or iatrogenic neuropraxias between groups. There was a shorter delay between presentation and surgery in older children (mean, 217 vs. 451 min, P<0.0001). Three or more pins were used more often in older patients (61.8% in older children vs. 43.6% in younger children, P<0.0001). Major complications including reoperation, loss of fixation, or compartment syndrome were rare in both groups (1.1% in younger group vs. 0.6% in older group, P=1.000). There was a trend toward more pin site infections in older children (3.75% vs. 1.56%, P=0.071). Physical therapy was required nearly 4 times more frequently in older children for management of residual stiffness (20.0% vs. 5.7%, P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Children older than 8 years of age have a higher rate of open supracondylar humerus fractures, although nerve injury rates are similar. Surgeons placed more pins for fixation of fractures in older patients and elbow stiffness requiring physical therapy occurred more commonly after surgical intervention.

EVIDENCE

III Retrospective cohort.

Treatment of displaced pediatric supracondylar humerus fracture patterns requiring medial fixation: a reliable and safer cross-pinning technique

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of displaced Gartland type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures in children may include closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. The pin configuration may be all-lateral entry or cross-pin. Despite the improved stability possible with cross-pinning, there is an inherent iatrogenic risk to the ulnar nerve of about 6%. As medial fixation may be necessary for certain fracture patterns, this study was conducted to evaluate the risk of ulnar neuropathy using a technique here described and developed to minimize injury to this structure.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on all children treated for a supracondylar humerus fracture at our institution between 2003 and 2010. All the type 3 displaced fractures were placed into 2 groups: lateral-entry pinning and cross-pinning. The 2 groups were then compared for risk of ulnar nerve injury, and a post hoc power analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 381 supracondylar humerus fractures met the inclusion criteria. Our cross-pinning technique was used in 187 (49%) of the children with a mean age of 5.8 years (range, 0.92 to 13.92 y). There were 4 ulnar nerve injuries in the entire cohort and 2 sustained as iatrogenic injuries in the cross-pinning group (1.1%). There was no significant difference between our 2 groups in regard to risk of ulnar nerve injury (P=0.24). There is a statistically significant lower risk of ulnar nerve injury in our cross-pinning technique than previously described techniques (P=0.0028), with a post hoc power analysis of 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the inherent risk for iatrogenic nerve injury with cross-pinning completely displaced supracondylar humerus fractures, there is often a need to use this technique to improve fixation and stability of the fracture. Our method of cross-pinning is safe and reproducible for providing fracture stability with a significant decrease in the risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury (1 in 94) when a medial pin is required.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-therapeutic studies.

Changing practice patterns: the impact of a randomized clinical trial on surgeons preference for treatment of type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

A recent prospective randomized clinical trial (RCT) for comparison of medial and lateral entry pins with lateral entry pins for treatment of Gartland type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHF) was published, validating the national trend toward treatment of this injury with only lateral entry pins. But have surgeons actually changed their practice as a result of these recent data? The purpose of this study was to compare pin configuration, loss of reduction and rate of nerve injuries before and after the RCT.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of patients with Gartland type 3 SCHF who were treated before the RCT (April 2000 to April 2003: 141 patients) and after the trial (April 2006 to April 2009: 126 patients). Eight surgeons were included. Patient demographic data, pin configuration, neurovascular status, and radiographic results were compared. Comparisons between the pretrial cohort and the posttrial cohort as a group as well as for each individual surgeon were performed. Comparisons included the choice of pin configuration, incidence of loss of radiographic reduction, iatrogenic nerve injuries, return to the operating room, and infection before and after the clinical trial.

RESULTS

There was a statistically different pin configuration in the pretrial group compared with the posttrial group (P<0.0001) with the posttrial group having a much higher percentage of bicolumnar lateral entry only pins. Five out of 8 surgeons individually had a statistically significant change in their practice pattern for pin configuration. There was no difference from pretrial to posttrial in loss of radiographic reduction, infection rate, iatrogenic nerve injuries, or return to the operating room.

CONCLUSIONS

Data showing change in surgeon practice have been relatively sparse. In this group of surgeons who participated in an RCT, there was a statistically significant change in pin configuration for treatment of Gartland type 3 SCHF after the results of the RCT were known. The change in clinical practice did not have an effect on outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Comparison of anterior and lateral approaches in the treatment of extension-type supracondylar humerus fractures in children

Eighty-four patients who underwent open reduction and Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation for supracondylar humerus fractures through anterior or lateral approach with or without additional medial incisions were compared with regard to complications and end results. A total of 46 patients were operated through the anterior and 38 through the lateral approach. In lateral approach cases, medial incision was added only in those patients in whom the medial condyle and therefore the ulnar nerve were not easily distinguished due to excessive oedema. All the fractures were Gartland type III extension fractures. The patient series was consecutive, and lateral approach had a longer follow-up of 89 months (70-134 months); the incision protocol was changed approximately mid-series to the anterior approach, and therefore a shorter follow-up time of only 50 months (24-84 months) was possible. All patients were treated according to the same postoperative protocol. A follow-up examination was performed and all the patients were evaluated according to Flynn's criteria; loss of flexion or extension clinically, any deviation of the carrying angle radiologically, and the appearance of the incision scar were evaluated. According to the above parameters, results were excellent in 19, good in 18, and fair in one in the lateral incision group, whereas in the anterior incision group, excellent results were obtained in 31 patients and good results in 15 of them. Cosmetically, two patients in the lateral incision group had hypertrophic scar tissue, whereas the anterior incisions were barely noticeable as they were included into the flexion crease. In conclusion, we can say that anterior incision when open reduction is needed in pediatric supracondylar fractures offer the advantage of a smaller scar and easy access to structures that might be injured between the fractured fragments.

Enhanced biomechanical stiffness with large pins in the operative treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures

BACKGROUND

Various pin configurations have been recommended for the treatment of supracondylar humerus fractures on the basis of the choice between stability versus the risk of iatrogenic nerve injury. However, little attention has been paid to pin size. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the stability of large (2.8 mm or 0.110 inch) and small (1.6 mm or 0.062 inch) pin constructs in 6 configurations.

METHODS

A transverse fracture pattern was created by sectioning synthetic humeri in the midolecranon fossa. The specimens were then reduced and pinned in one of 6 configurations: 2 small pins (Kirschner wires) placed crossed or lateral divergent, 2 large pins (Steinmann pins) placed crossed or lateral divergent, or 3 small pins placed crossed or lateral divergent. All specimens were then tested in sagittal extension bending. We investigated the effect of pin configuration and cycle on the sagittal stiffness using multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

The 2 small lateral divergent pin configuration was significantly less stable than small crossed pins and large pins in a crossed or a lateral configuration. The addition of a third (lateral) pin to the small crossed pin construct made it significantly less stable than 2 large crossed pins. Although the stability between the remaining configurations was not significantly different, the 2 large crossed pins required the greatest torque to rotate the fragment 20 degrees. There was a significant reduction in torque as a function of cycle, suggesting a loss of fixation during cycling (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Large pins (2.8 mm) in any configuration and the placement of small pins (1.6 mm) in a crossed configuration provided more stable reduction in sagittal extension bending than did the conventional 2 small pins in a lateral divergent pin configuration. The most stable configurations involve crossing the medial and lateral pins.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

There are more stable options than the traditional 2 small lateral pin configuration for fixation of unstable supracondylar fractures. The addition of a third pin is not always advantageous.

Consensus and different perspectives on treatment of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children

BACKGROUND

Although closed reduction and percutaneous pinning is accepted as the treatment of choice for displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus, there are some debates on the pinning techniques, period of immobilization, elbow range of motion (ROM) exercise, and perceptions on the restoration of elbow ROM. This study was to investigate the consensus and different perspectives on the treatment of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.

METHODS

A questionnaire was designed for this study, which included the choice of pinning technique, methods of elbow motion, and perception on the restoration of elbow ROM. Seventy-six orthopedic surgeons agreed to participate in the study and survey was performed by a direct interview manner in the annual meetings of Korean Pediatric Orthopedic Association and Korean Society for Surgery of the Hand. There were 17 pediatric orthopedic surgeons, 48 hand surgeons, and 11 general orthopedic surgeons.

RESULTS

Ninety-six percent of the orthopedic surgeons agreed that closed reduction and percutaneous pinning was the treatment of choice for the displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children. They showed significant difference in the choice of pin entry (lateral vs. crossed pinning, p = 0.017) between the three groups of orthopedic surgeons, but no significant difference was found in the number of pins, all favoring 2 pins over 3 pins. Most of the orthopedic surgeons used a removable splint during the ROM exercise period. Hand surgeons and general orthopedic surgeons tended to be more concerned about elbow stiffness after supracondylar fracture than pediatric orthopedic surgeons, and favored gentle passive ROM exercise as elbow motion. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons most frequently adopted active ROM exercise as the elbow motion method. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons and general orthopedic surgeons acknowledged that the patient's age was the most contributing factor to the restoration of elbow motion, whereas hand surgeons acknowledged the amount of injury to be the most contributing factor.

CONCLUSIONS

More investigation and communication will be needed to reach a consensus in treating pediatric supracondylar fractures of the humerus between the different subspecialties of orthopedic surgeons, which can minimize malpractice and avoid medicolegal issues.

A prospective randomised, controlled clinical trial comparing medial and lateral entry pinning with lateral entry pinning for percutaneous fixation of displaced extension type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of medial and lateral entry pinning with lateral entry pinning for percutaneous fixation of displaced (Gartland type II and type III) extension type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.

METHODS

The study was a single center, prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial. Between October 2007 and September 2010, 160 patients who satisfy the inclusion and exclusion criterias were enrolled in the study, with 80 patients in each group. All the percutaneous pinning was done according to a uniform standardized technique. The patients were re-evaluated as outpatients at three weeks, six weeks and three months after the surgery. At three months follow-up visit, following informations were recorded as outcome measures: (i) Carrying angle (deg) (ii) passive range of elbow motion (deg) (iii) Flynn's criteria for grading, based on the loss of carrying angle and loss of total range of elbow motion. (iv) Baumann angle (deg) (v) Change in Baumann angle (deg) between the Intraoperative radiographs after the surgery and radiographs at three months follow-up visit (vi) loss of reduction grading, based on the change in the Baumann angle.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to base-line characteristics, withdrawals and complication rate. At three months follow-up visit, patients were evaluated by recording the various outcome measures. There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to the various outcome measures such as carrying angle, passive range of elbow motion, Flynn grading, Baumann angle, change in the Baumann angle and loss of reduction grading.

CONCLUSIONS

If a uniform standardized operative technique is followed in each method, then the result of both the percutaneous fixation methods will be same in terms of safety and efficacy.

Outcomes of reduction more than 7 days after injury in supracondylar humeral fractures in children

BACKGROUND

Some slightly extended type II fractures initially treated with closed reduction and casting can displace during the first 2 weeks of follow-up. Although closed reduction and percutaneous pinning are desirable for displaced supracondylar humeral fractures treated acutely, there is little or no available information regarding the surgeon's ability to obtain a satisfactory reduction when such a procedure is performed more than a week after the original injury, or the clinical outcome of it.

METHODS

We reviewed the information on 143 type II pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures that were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. To determine the effect of late treatment, we compared a group of fractures that was treated within the first 7 days (group 1, n=101) with a group that was treated >7 days after the injury (group 2, n=42).

RESULTS

Mean time from presentation to surgery was 2.1 days (range, 0 to 5) and 9.8 days (range, 7 to 15) for fractures in groups 1 and 2, respectively. There was no need for an open reduction in either group. An anatomic reduction was obtained in all fractures. There were no iatrogenic nerve injuries, vascular complications, or compartment syndromes in either group. Length of surgery was similar in both groups (P=0.3). There were no significant differences in final carrying angle (P=0.2) or range of motion of the treated elbow (P=0.21). Avascular necrosis of the humeral trochlea was identified in 2 fractures that were treated surgically 8 days after the original injury (group 2).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that it is possible to obtain an anatomic reduction of a type II pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture even after 7 days from the injury. Such a delay in surgery does not appear to lead to longer surgeries, a higher incidence of open reduction, or to alter the final alignment or range of motion of the elbow. However, the risk of developing an avascular necrosis of the humeral trochlea must be considered.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Meta-analysis of pinning in supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of lateral pinning versus cross pinning in pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.

DATA SOURCES

The Cochrane library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, specific orthopaedic journals, abstracts/papers from conferences and meetings, and reference lists of articles were searched from inception to September 2007.

STUDY SELECTION

All randomized controlled trials and cohort studies comparing outcomes (ie, loss of fixation, iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury, and Flynn criteria) between crossed and lateral pinning were identified.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two authors independently assessed methodological quality and extracted data by using a standardized data extraction form.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the Q test. Pooled relative risk was estimated using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Eighteen of 1829 studies were included with 1615 supracondylar fractures (837 and 778 children with cross and lateral pinning, respectively). The average age was 6.1 ± 0.9 years. The risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury was 4.3 (95% confidence interval, 2.1-9.1) times higher in cross pinning compared with lateral pinning. There was no significant difference for loss of fixation, late deformity, or Flynn criteria between the two types of pinning.

CONCLUSIONS

Lateral pinning is preferable to cross pinning for fixation of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures as a result of decreased risk of ulnar nerve injury.

Lateral entry fixation using three divergent pins for displaced paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures

Background. Supracondylar fractures are the commonest elbow injury in children. Most displaced supracondylar fractures are manipulated and held with a medial/lateral entry or two lateral Kirschner wires. This clinical study has results purely from a three lateral divergent wire technique. Methods. Displaced supracondylar fractures were manipulated closed and three lateral divergent wires inserted. Primary study end points were range of movement and carrying angle relative to the contralateral uninjured elbow (Flynn's grading system) and presence of iatrogenic nerve or vessel injury. Results. 25 children between 3 and 10 years (median 5, range 3-10) suffered a displaced fracture (15 type III, 10 type IIB). 15 left-, 10 right-sided fractures, 14 boys and 11 girls). 23 were fixed primarily, of these 21 in the first 24 hours. 2 were delayed due to swelling. 2 were fixed secondarily with lateral k-wires after loss of position (from a primarily fixed crossed wire technique). One radial and one median nerve palsy sustained at injury settled. No iatrogenic nerve injuries occurred. 21 Excellent, 3 good and 1 poor result on Flynn's grading. Conclusions. The use of three wires on the lateral side in this cohort showed no evidence of slip in fracture position and no iatrogenic nerve injury.

A new surgical technique for the treatment of supracondylar humerus fracture malunions in children

PURPOSE

To report a new locking lateral closing wedge osteotomy used in repairing pediatric supracondylar humerus fracture malunions, which allows for coronal and sagittal plane correction of both cubitus varus and extension.

METHODS

At our institution, eight children with cubitus varus resulting from prior supracondylar humerus fracture malunions underwent a new technique of lateral closing wedge osteotomy performed by a single surgeon. Preoperative templating created from radiographs of the bilateral upper extremities were compared with clinical exam to determine the angle of triangular bone that must be removed in order to correct the varus and any extension deformity. A lateral approach and subperiosteal dissection exposed the distal humerus. A transverse osteotomy created a proximal and distal fragment, from which two triangles of bone were removed. The fragments were reunited, parallel lateral pins were placed, and live imaging confirmed stable fixation.

RESULTS

The osteotomy was performed in eight patients, with an average age of 6.3 years. The mean interval between the initial injury and corrective osteotomy was 2.4 years. All patients ended up with flexion of 130° or greater with full and symmetrical pronation and supination. The average ulnohumeral angular correction was 25.5°, which was within 2° of the uninvolved elbow in seven patients and to within 5° in one patient. Baumann's angle averaged 85.3° preoperatively and 73.7° postoperatively, with an average 70.2° in the uninvolved elbow. All of the patients healed with excellent clinical and radiographic alignment and complete function. There were no complications or revisions.

CONCLUSION

Varus malunion is a well-described complication of pediatric supracondylar humerus fracture repairs, and many different osteotomy techniques have been described. This series demonstrates that an interlocking lateral wedge osteotomy with parallel lateral pin fixation can provide reliable correction of varus and extension deformity, with a minimal complication rate.

Controversial topics in the management of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in children

The aim of our study was to review the literature looking for the up to date information regarding these controversial topics. An electronic literature search was performed using the Medline/PubMed database. A closed reduction attempt should always be done first. It is more important to engage both columns as well as divergence of the pins no matter whatever configuration is applied. Time to surgery seems to be not an important factor to increase the risk of complications as well as open reduction rate. Usually neurological injuries present a spontaneous recovery. If there is absent pulse, we should follow the algorithm associated with the perfusion of the hand.

Medial and lateral pin versus lateral-entry pin fixation for Type 3 supracondylar fractures in children: a prospective, surgeon-randomized study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of medial and lateral (crossed pin) and lateral-entry pin techniques for Gartland Type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures in children.

METHODS

Six pediatric orthopaedists were divided into the 2 treatment groups (medial and lateral pins or lateral only pins) based on pre-study pinning technique preferences. Patients were randomized into 1 of the 2 pinning technique treatment groups based on which attending was on call at the time of patient presentation. One hundred and four patients met inclusion criteria. Forty-seven patients underwent lateral-entry pinning and 57 underwent crossed pinning. The 2 groups were similar with respect to age, sex, preoperative neurovascular injury, direction of fracture displacement, and timing of surgery. Outcome parameters measured included radiographic maintenance of reduction, iatrogenic neurovascular complications, and rate of infection. All radiographic measurements, and interobserver reliability, were determined by a 3 physician panel.

RESULTS

The results of the interobserver reliability data showed a strong correlation and this data allowed 95% confidence that a change in Baumann's angle of more than 6 degrees and humerocapitellar angle of more than 10 degrees was significant. The lateral-entry patients experienced a median absolute change of Baumann's angle of 3.7 degrees with 12 patients having greater than 6 degrees loss of reduction; whereas those in the medial and lateral-pin group saw a median change of 2.9 degrees with 10 patients having greater than 6 degrees loss of reduction. In terms of the humerocapitellar angle, the lateral-entry patients experienced a median absolute change of 4.8 degrees with 11 patients having greater than 10 degrees loss of reduction; whereas those in the medial and lateral-pin groups saw a median change of 5.1 degrees with 17 patients having greater than 10 degrees loss of reduction. There was no significant difference in infection rate between the 2 groups but 2 cases of iatrogenic neurovascular injury occurred in patients who had a medial pin placed.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no statistical difference in the radiographic outcomes between lateral-entry and medial and lateral-pin techniques for the management of Type 3 supracondylar fractures in children when evaluated in this prospective and surgeon-randomized trial, but 2 cases of iatrogenic injury to the ulnar nerve occurred with medially placed pins.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2.