Delayed management of fracture of the lateral humeral condyle in children

Abstract

Thirty-nine displaced fractures of the lateral humeral condyle in children were followed for an average of 5 (2-5) years. The results were evaluated from functional and cosmetic aspects. Patients treated within 2 weeks by open reduction and internal fixation did well. Those operated on after 6 weeks did not do better than nonoperated on cases. Complications included cubitus varus and valgus deformities, osteonecrosis, nonunion and malunion, and loss of motion. We recommend that patients presenting late be left alone and any sequelae evaluated at a late stage.

Fracture of the humeral condyles in children:49 cases evaluated after 18—45 years

“…In old lesions, our long-term results are similar to those previously reported (Jakob et al 1975, Zionts and Stolz 1984, Dhillon et al 1988). All patients treated with excision of the osteochondral fragment had very poor results and that treatment should be abanquence either of other complications or of excision of the lateral humeral condyle.…”

Kirschner Wire Fixation of Neglected Lateral Condylar Fracture of the Humerus in Children

“…Cubitus valgus was seen in 4 patients (range, 12 to 18) and cubitusvarus in 5 patients (range, 10 to 8 degrees) by the criteria of scoring system proposed by Dhillon et al [4] which defined the ideal carrying angle as 7 to 10 degrees of valgus. However, in 7 patients who had angular deformities, the difference of carrying angle between the affected side and contralateral side was within 5 degrees at the latest follow-up.…”

“…At the latest follow-up, tenderness over the lateral aspect of the elbow had scoring system proposed by Dhillon et al [4] in time from injury to operation 3-6 weeks was excellent in 8 patients (61.5%), good in 5 patients (39.5%); in time from injury to operation 6-12 weeks was, good in 2 (25%) patients, fair in 3 patient (37.5%), and poor in 3 patient (37.5) (see, Table 3). …”

“…All patients were followed up for a period of one year and so far according to Dhillon et al [4]. Radiologically avascular necrosis, malunion, nonunion and heterotropic ossification were specifically looked at.…”

“…To assess cosmetic issues, carrying angle was measured and compared with that of the contralateral side and development of bony hump on lateral side of distal humerus after surgery was examined. For overall outcome assessment, the scoring system proposed by Dhillon et al [4] was used. This scoring system includes pain on activity, range of motion, and carrying angle (see, Table 1).…”