Fishtail Deformity of the Distal Humerus

Abstract

Fishtail deformity is a rare but vexing complication of pediatric elbow fractures. Clinical presentation with loss of motion and/or pain is often delayed. Arthroscopic debridement may improve symptoms in the short term, but long-term prognosis is guarded. Subluxation of the radial head is associated with worse functional results. Early detection and surgical strategies to prevent proximal migration of the forearm and development of ulnotrochlear incongruity, radial head dislocation, and impingement may improve outcomes in patients with fishtail deformity.

Posterolateral approach for humeral lateral condyle fractures in children

“…After a fracture, the blood to the lateral epicondyle is disrupted, except for small posterior intra-articular vessels supplying the lateral epicondyle [11]. Radiological fragmentation of the capitellum has been reported as a sequel of avascular necrosis [29]. One of the 20 cases had radiological fragmentation of the capitellum after operation for nonunion.…”

Post-traumatic fishtail deformity of distal humerus—is there a risk for refracture?

“…Glotzbecker et al 1 reported the largest series of fishtail deformity cases from a tertiary hospital. Most of the 15 patients in this series presented with pain or limitation of motion.…”

“…Treatment of this condition is based on presenting symptoms but most patients are asymptomatic and this complication often goes unrecognised. None of the published series so far recognise this as a risk factor for refractures even though one author1 has reported a fracture secondary to fishtail deformity. Does this deformity cause an inherent weakness of distal humerus?…”

Case Report on Cubitus Varus Deformity as a Complication of United Medial Condyle of Humerus Fracture- A Rare Fracture in Children

“…. [4], [5], [10], [22], [23] However, union may be slow in them. In fractures treated promptly, results have been satisfactory.…”