Displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus treated by closed reduction with percutaneous pin fixation

Abstract

Background: Displaced variety of supracondylar fractures of the humerus are common in the pediatric age group. These fractures when left untreated or mistreated are associated with a higher rate of complications like neurovascular injury and residual deformity and disability. Although various treatment methods are available, the method of closed reduction with percutaneous pin fixation has been widely employed by many as a satisfactory one. Materials and Methods: Between July 2017 and January 2018, 15 patients with supracondylar fracture of the humerus of Gartland type III in the age group less than 10 years were included in our study. These patients were managed by closed reduction and pin fixation with crossed Kirschner wires under C-arm guidance and their outcome was assessed clinically using Flynn's criteria. Results:The average age at surgery was around 5.5 years (range 2 to 9 years). As per Flynn's criteria, the outcome was excellent in 5 patients, good in 8 patients, fair in 2 and poor in nil patient. Conclusion: Closed reduction with percutaneous pin fixation seems to prove an effective treatment for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in the pediatric age group.