J Korean Fract Soc.  1999 Oct;12(4):1040-1045.

Treatment of Supracondylar Fractures of the Humerus in Children by Open Reduction

• Kim JR
• Lee JM
• Lee JH
• Sin PS

Abstract

PURPOSE: To analyze the results of open reduction in displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children, and to propose guidelines for an open approach to supracondylar fractures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty-six children(average age 6.7 years), who had open reduction of severely displaced supracondylar fractures were reviewes retrospectively over a 2- year period(1993 to 1997). Elbow range of motion, carrying angle, and radiographic measurement of the Baumann angle were assessed, then each distal humerus were compared to uninjured side.
RESULTS
At follow-up, the Baumann angle and carrying angle differed by an average of 2 degrees and 4 degrees respectively compared with the unaffected arm. Range of motion was satisfactory in 96% of patientl, and there wah no significant cubitus varus.
CONCLUSIONS
Open reduction of severely displaced supracondylar fractures is a safe and effective procedure, for which orthopedists should lower their threshold, given certain appropriate indicators.

Keyword

Humerus; Supracondylar fracture; Open reduction

MeSH Terms

Arm
Child*
Elbow
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Humerus*
Range of Motion, Articular
Retrospective Studies