Lateral Crossed Kirschner Wire combined with External Fixation - An Innovative Surgical Approach for Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in School-Aged Children

Abstract

Aim and objective This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of an innovative surgical technique - the lateral crossed Kirschner wire fixation combined with external fixation, in treating supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children. Methods Between April 2022 and April 2023, we enrolled 45 school-aged children (6-13 years) with supracondylar humeral fractures. We employed a novel surgical technique, involving lateral crossed Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation combined with external fixation, to facilitate early functional recovery without necessitating plaster cast immobilization. Postoperative follow-up included photographic documentation, assessment of elbow joint functional recovery, and patient satisfaction surveys. Results All patients underwent a follow-up period ranging from 6 to 18 months. Among them, 5 patients developed skin infections at pin sites, successfully managed with daily pin care. There were no cases of nonunion, K-wire migration, or dislocation. According to the Flynn score, 93.3% of patients exhibited excellent elbow joint function at 3 months postoperatively, increasing to 97.8% at 6 months. There were no instances of elbow varus deformity during the follow-up, and both patients and their families reported high satisfaction levels, recommending this method for similar fractures in other children. Conclusions Utilizing lateral crossed Kirschner wires (K-wires) fixation with external fixation for treating supracondylar humeral fractures in children yields satisfactory results, enhances early functional recovery of the elbow joint, enables a quicker resumption of school activities, and elevates patient satisfaction. This technique is therefore advocated as a preferred method for addressing supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children.