PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare the results of the lateral entry pin technique and the crossed pin technique in treatment of Gartland type III humerus supracondylar fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventeen patients (group I) underwent surgery using the lateral entry pin technique, and 33 patients (group II) underwent surgery using the crossed pin technique for Gartland type III humerus supracondylar fracture in Hanyang University Seoul Hospital between January 2011 and January 2014. Maintenance of reduction was compared between the 2 surgical techniques by measuring changes in Baumann angle and lateral humerocapitellar angle after surgery and after pin removal in groups I and II. In addition, the final carrying angle and level of loss of functional movement were measured for comparison of clinical results between the 2 groups. Occurrence of ulnar nerve palsy in the 2 groups was also examined. RESULTS The mean Baumann angle and lateral humerocapitellar angle changes were 3.3degrees and 3.7 in group I and 3.1degrees and 3.4degrees in group II, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the 2 groups. Clinical results showed that the changes in the final carrying angle and range of motion were 2.9degrees and 2.6degrees in group I and 2.6degrees and 3.0degrees in group II, respectively, indicating no significant differences between the 2 groups. In terms of nerve damage, 1 patient in group II had temporary iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsy. CONCLUSION The lateral entry pin technique may be regarded as an appropriate treatment that reduces the risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsy and provides satisfactory results in Gartland type III humerus supracondylar fracture patients.
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of locking compression plate by analyzing the clinical outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation with locking compression plate in the treatment of femur supracondylar fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed 21 cases of distal femur fractures which were treated with locking compression plate in our hospital from February 2005 to March 2009 and followed up for minimal 1 year. The types of fractures were seven A1, four A2, two A3, six C2, and two C3 according to AO classification. 2 cases were open fractures. The cases were evaluated by the criteria of Schatzker-Lambert. RESULTS The mean time to union was 14.3 weeks. One delayed union, one refracture were observed, but no nonunion and postoperative infection was observed. The outcomes were excellent in 6 cases, good in 11, fair in 3, and failure in 1 by the criteria of Schatzker-Lambert. The overall results were excellent or good in 17 cases (81.0%). CONCLUSION In the treatment of femur supracondylar fracture, open reduction and internal fixation with locking compression plate yields good result and locking compression plate is useful choice of fixation option.
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Incidence of nonunion after surgery of distal femoral fractures using contemporary fixation device: a meta‐analysis Byung-Ho Yoon, In Keun Park, Youngwoo Kim, Hyoung-Keun Oh, Suk Kyu Choo, Yerl-Bo Sung Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery.2021; 141(2): 225. CrossRef
PURPOSE To suggest the most reliable guideline of the treatement for the supracondylar fracture in children by the comparison of the radiographic parameters between forearm supination-elbow extension and forearm pronation-elbow flexion view. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of seventy-one patients were included in the study. Baumann, metaphyseal diaphyseal and medial epicondylar epiphyseal angle of normal elbow in extension and flexion view were compared. Finally, the results of Group I (operation with elbow extension view) and Group II (operation with elbow flexion view) were compared. RESULTS Intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reliability were better in the Baumann angle with extension view and metaphyseal diaphyseal angle with flexion view. In extension view, Baumann and metaphyseal diaphyseal angle show negative correlation with carrying angle but in flexion view, only metaphyseal diaphyseal angle shows negative correlation. Baumann angle were greater in flexion view and medial epicondylar epiphyseal angle were greater in extension view. There was no statistical difference in the final results of Group I and II. CONCLUSION Baumann angle was more effective in forearm supination-elbow extension view and metaphyseal diaphyseal angle was more effective in forearm pronation-elbow flexion view. The difference between elbow extension and flexion view should be considered during operation.
Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is a common injury in the pediatric patient. A less common complication is the development of myositis ossificans. Although frequently cited as a possible complication, there are few reported cases of this occurring in the pediatric patient. We present a case report of a 8 year old boy who developed myositis ossificans after a supracondylar fracture of the humerus. After one year of the injury, we could ascertained radiologically complete maturation of the mass which developed in front of the distal humerus and markedly made motion of the elbow joint limited. We could obtain further motion through the surgical resection and then physical therapy. Now, eleven months have lapsed since the mass was removed, the range of motion is almost normal, and the recurrence of myositis ossificans is not existed.
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Recent Trends in Treatment of Supracondylar Fracture of Distal Humerus in Children Soon Chul Lee, Jong Sup Shim Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2012; 25(1): 82. CrossRef
PURPOSE To evaluate the radiological and clinical outcomes after operative treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures in children with lateral K-wire fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS 69 displaced supracondylar fractures treated by closed reduction and percutaneous lateral K-wire fixation were included in this study. Carrying angle and range of motion were measured and graded by the Flynn criteria. To assess the accuracy of the reduction, Baumann angle and lateral humerocapital angles were compared to the contralateral side, and to evaluate the stability of fixation both measurements were taken immediately postoperatively and after K-wire removal. RESULTS 55 cases (80%) were categorized as excellent and 12 cases (17%) as good. There were no significant statistical differences in Baumann angle and lateral humerocapital angle between postoperative and K-wire removal. Although there were 9 cases that showed differences in Baumann angle and 32 cases in lateral humerocapital angle of more than 10 degrees compared to the opposite side at the immediate postoperative radiograph, 9 cases showed satisfactory clinical results. CONCLUSION Closed reduction and lateral K-wire fixation is considered as an acceptable modality of the treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures in children, and clinical outcome is more closely correlated with carrying angle and stability of fracture site rather than rotational deformity or hyperextension of fragment measured radiographically.
PURPOSE To evaluate a new treatment method by pin leverage technique in Gartland type III fractures to avoid forceful manipulation or open reduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS 99 cases were included in this study and divided into 3 groups (I;open reduction, II; closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation, III; pin leverage technique), and we analyzed timing to operation, length of operation, associated neurovascular injuries, complications, and clinical and radiological outcomes at final follow-up. RESULTS The average length of operation 119, 57, and 68 minutes respectively. The associated nerve injuries were 8, 2, and 2 cases respectively. There were a case of superficial pin tract infection in group I, three cases of superficial pin tract infection and a case of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury in group II. At final follow-up, clinical results were excellent or good in all cases and there were 5 cases (8.3%) of fair results in group II radiologically. Closed reduction with pin leverage technique were failed in 5 cases. CONCLUSION In treatment of Gartland type III fractures, pin leverage reduction technique is considered to be a good alternative prior to open reduction, because it provides shortened length of operation, avoidance of forceful manipulation and open reduction.
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Recent Trends in Treatment of Supracondylar Fracture of Distal Humerus in Children Soon Chul Lee, Jong Sup Shim Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2012; 25(1): 82. CrossRef
PURPOSE To evaluate the outcomes of minimal anterior approach and thumb assisted technique, in children with Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fracture, who were operated by this technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty two children with Gartland type III supracondylar fractures of the humerus with severe swelling were taken up for minimal open reduction and K-wire fixation. The technique used was a minimal incision in the cubital fossa and thumb assisted reduction of the fracture. Stabilization of fractures was done with 1.6 mm Kirschner wires. RESULTS The outcomes were excellent in 40 cases good in 2 cases. No complications including malunion or scar contracture were seen. CONCLUSION This technique is safe, effective and can be used for irreducible, displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children
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Supracondylar Humerus Fractures: Classification Based Treatment Algorithms Mudit Shah, Mandar Vikas Agashe Indian Journal of Orthopaedics.2021; 55(1): 68. CrossRef
Recent Trends in Treatment of Supracondylar Fracture of Distal Humerus in Children Soon Chul Lee, Jong Sup Shim Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2012; 25(1): 82. CrossRef
Treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children by a pin leverage technique H.-Y. Lee, S.-J. Kim The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British volume.2007; 89-B(5): 646. CrossRef
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new treatment method, which was using intraoperative skin traction and Steinmann(S)-pin for anatomically reduction by gentle manipulation to treat the displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus with percutaneous pinning. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical analysis was performed on thirty displaced supracondylar fractures (Gartland type III) of the humerus patients with a minimal three month follow up, who were treated percutaneous pinning after reduction with by intraoperative skin traction and S-pin. Clinical results were analyzed according to the Flynn grading system. RESULTS According to the Flynn grading system, excellent results were obtained in 12 cases (43%), good in 14 case (47%), fair in 4 cases (10%), poor in 0 cases (0%) and we obtained all satisfactory results. There was one case which was reoperated for closed reduction and percutaneous pinning repeatedly due to reduction loss and no case with conversion to open reduction. CONCLUSION To avoid the forceful manipulation, gentle closed reduction and percutaneous pinning using intraoperative skin traction and S-pin especially for rotational correction in the displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus is considered to be useful method because showed satisfactory results.
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Treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children by a pin leverage technique H.-Y. Lee, S.-J. Kim The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British volume.2007; 89-B(5): 646. CrossRef
PURPOSE We retrospectively analysed the result of retrograde supracondylar nail fixation in femur supracondylar fractures and evaluate the clinical effectiveness of this method. MATERIALS AND METHODS Since October 1998 we have treated 14 supracondylar fractures (AO type: A2-6, A3-1, C1-3 and C2-4) by retrograde intramedullary nailing technique through trans-patellar tendon approach from October 1998 to June 2001 and followed more than 1 year. RESULTS Among 14 cases, 5 cases were excellent, 6 good, 3 fair according to Schatzker functional result. The complications were 1 distal locking screw loosening, 1 delayed union and 1 fracture around proximal locking site. CONCLUSION Even though the retrograde nailing may damage the knee joint because it is inserted by opening up the joint, it provided the necessary stable fixation with short operation time, low blood loss, minimal soft tissue injury. Thus we believe that retrograde nailing is useful operative technique for the management of supracondylar fracture in osteoporotic, communited fractures, or open fractures.
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Retrograde Nailing for Supracondylar Fracture after Total Knee Replacement: The Compatibility of Femoral Implant with Supracondylar Nail Moon-Jib Yoo, You-Jin Kim, Jin-Won Lee Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2008; 21(1): 19. CrossRef
PURPOSE For the treatment of displaced children supracondylar fractures, closed reduction and lateral pinning were performed consecutively and their results were analyzed. MATERIALS AND METHODS During the period from January 1997 to May 2001, all children with displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus were treated by closed reduction and lateral K-wire pinning. Among them, 44 fractures with more than 1 year follow up were selected. Carrying angle and range of motion were measured. Baumann angle and lateral humerocapital angles were measured from the anteroposterior and lateral radiograph 3 times (immediate post op, K-wire removal, last follow up). RESULTS Results were graded according to the criteria of Flynn et al. using both cosmetic and functional evaluation. According to the cosmetic factor, 36 cases (82%) were excellent and 8 cases (18%) were good. According to the functional factor, 39 cases (88%) were excellent and 5 cases (12%) were good. No statiscally significant differences, as seen on Baumann and humerocapital angle, between immediate post operative films and films taken at the time of K-wire removal (p=0.082, p=0.27). There was no significant differences in Baumann and humerocapital angle at the time of K-wire removal and last follow up (p=0.19, p=0.27). CONCLUSION Closed reduction and lateral K-wire pinning is considered as an acceptable modality of the treatment of displaced children supracondylar fractures.
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Treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children by a pin leverage technique H.-Y. Lee, S.-J. Kim The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British volume.2007; 89-B(5): 646. CrossRef
PURPOSE Supracondylar fracture was known as supracondylar dilema because of complication and difficulty in treatment. Many methods were devised to prevent and minimize the complications. Among the treatment methods, closed reduction and percutaneous pinning was widely used for most of supracondylar fractures. But arguments was existed for the the pinning methods such as pinning site and number of pins. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed 44 cases of displaced supracondylar fractures treated by closed reduction and percutaneous pining. The pins were removed about 4~5 weeks after operation and range of motion was begun. All cases was reviewed restropectively and results was analysed by Flynn grading system. The pinning method was analysed. RESULTS There were no significant clinical results among the methods of percutaneous pinnings. Even though two crossed pins from the lateral and medial condyles were preferable for most fractures. The results are that 1)At least 2 K-wires were needed. 2)Prognosis was not influenced by the pinning site. 3)The complication was prevented by accurate reduction using image intensifier during operation. CONCLUSION Two lateral parallel pins were alternative method for marked swelling and severely displaced fractures.
PURPOSE We investigated the treatment modality and clinical results in flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS 11 cases of flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus(3 type I, 5 type II, 3 type III) were treated, 3 fractures(3 type I) with extension cast, 6 fractures(5 type II, 1 type III) with two lateral percutaneous K-wire fixation, 2 fractures(2 type III) with open reduction and crossed pin fixation. The K-wire were removed after 4-6 weeks of operation and the follow-up period ranged from 12 months to 26 months, averaging 18 months. RESULTS By Flynn 's functional and cosmetic criteria, nine cases were good and excellent results, one case (type III with two lateral percutaneous pin fixation) is fair result. CONCLUSION As the same methods of the extension-type supracondylar fractures, the K-wire fixation is useful method in the treatment of flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.
PURPOSE We evaluated the results of the displaced supracondylar fractures in children treated by closed reduction and cast immobilization, closed reduction and crossed K-wires fixation or open reduction with minimal incision and crossed K-wires fixation. MATERIALS AND METHOD We retrospectively reviewed the results after 1 year of the treatment of 71 extension-type fractures (Gartland type II - 19 cases, type III - 52 cases) of supracondylar humeral fractures in children under age of 8 years. Closed reduction was impossible in 20 cases (1 type II, 19 type III) and we performed open reduction with minimal incision and cross percutaneous pinning. We measured Baumanns angle and range of motion of elbow and evaluated the results by Flynns criteria. RESULT By Flynns criteria, 91.5 % of satisfactory (excellent, good) results in cosmetic factor and 97.2 % in functional factor. The result of closed reduction and percutaneous pinning is more excellent in functional factor and that of the minimal open reduction and percutaneous pinning in cosmetic factor but over all satisfactory results were similar. CONCLUSION The treatment of the displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in children needs accurate and delicate reduction and firm fixation to prevent deformity and to preserve function of the elbow. Open reduction with minimal incision instead of general incision for the manually irreducible supracondylar humeral fractures would be a reliable and convenient method for the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures in children.
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Treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children by a pin leverage technique H.-Y. Lee, S.-J. Kim The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British volume.2007; 89-B(5): 646. CrossRef
PURPOSE This study evaluated the clinical result of supracondylar fractures of the humerus treated with double tension band osteosynthesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS From October 1992 to September 2001, 14 patients with supracondylar fractures of the humerus were treated by method of double tension band osteosynthesis. Eleven fractures were the results of slipped down injury and two traffic accidents and one direct trauma. All fractures were classified according to the AO fracture classification (A2; 2, A3; 1, C1; 6, C2; 3, C3; 2). There were 5 males and 9 females with average age of 51.6 years (range 15 to 88). Olecranon osteotomy was performed in 4 patients with severe comminuted fractures. Postoperative immobiliza-tions were required for an average of 20.6 days and consolidations were noted after an average of 10.1 weeks. Before operation, bone marrow density studies were performed in five fractures above 65 years. Average T-score of the patients were -3.65 on femur neck and -2.97 on lumbar spine. All patients were re-examined after an average of 16.4 months. RESULTS Union and consolidation was achieved in all 14 patients with no secondary displacement. In range of motion, eight patients judged their results as excellent and four as good. Ten patients had no pain and four had only occasional discomfort. Early removal of K-wires was performed in one patient because irritation of one side K-wires were develop. Sensory change of the ulnar nerve was noted in two patients. Anterior transposition of ulnar nerve was performed in one patient and the other was improved spontaneously. Skin necrosis was developed in one patient but was healed after pin removal and conservative care. CONCLUSION The advantages of double tension band wiring are an easier and faster procedure, less periosteal and muscle damage, and more symmetrical compression than double plating. Therefore, in the commiuted osteoporotic fracture with poor tolerance for internal fixation with the plate or the simple supracondylar fractures in young age, double tension band osteosynthesis can provide sufficient and secure stability to allow early functional exercise.
PURPOSE Treatment of supracondylar fracture of the distal femur is challenging because of its characteristic anatomy and common occurrence of severe comminution. We evaluated the clinical results of 15 cases of AO type C supracondylar fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS From December 1990 to November 1999, fifteen of 27 cases of AO type C supracondylar fracture of the distal femur were treated operatively. Mean follow-up period was one year and 5 months (range, 1 year-3 years and 3 months). The mean age of patients was 43.6 years. Eleven cases were treated by internal fixation and four cases by Ilizarov. Clinical results were evaluated by Schatzker and Lambert criteria. RESULT There were 5 excellent, 4 good, 1 fair and 1 poor results (81% satisfactory) in 11 cases treated by internal fixation and 1 excellent, 2 good, 1 fair results (75% satisfactory) in 4 cases treated by external fixation.
COCLUSION: To get satisfactory results, AO type C supracondylar fracture of the distal femur need to be reduced anatomically and require rigid internal fixation. External fixation using Ilizarov can be an effective method of treatment in cases of open fracture and severe comminution with osteoporosis.
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Surgical Treatment of AO Type C Distal Femoral Fractures Using Locking Compression Plate (LCP-DF, Synthes®) Kap-Jung Kim, Sang Ki Lee, Won-Sik Choy, Won-Cho Kwon, Do Hyun Lee Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2010; 23(1): 20. CrossRef
Fractures in hemophiliacs with antibodies to factor VIII are very rare, and the presence of antibodies to factor VIII in the patient`s blood makes antihemophilic replacement therapy and operative treatment extremely difficult. We treated one case of supracondylar fracture of the humerus in hemophiliac with antibodies to factor VIII surgically and present that case with a review of the literature.
PURPOSE To analyze children with displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus that were treated by immediate closed reduction and then maintained by lateral percutaneous K-wire fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS 70 cases of supracondylar fractures of the humerus(5 type I, 19 type II, 46 type III) were treated, 14 fractures(5 type I, 7 type II, 2 type III) with cast, 49 fractures(12 type II, 37 type III) with lateral percutaneous pinning, 7 fractures(7 type III) with open reduction and internal fixation. The K-wire were removed after averaging 6.2 weeks of operation in out patient clinic. The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 28 months, averaging 13 months. RESULT By Flynn's functional and cosmetic criteria, 47 fractures(95.9%) among 49 fractures, treated with immediate closed reduction and lateral percutaneous pinning, resulted in satisfactory criteria. Only one fracture was reoperated due to reduction loss. CONCLUSION Immediate closed reduction and lateral percutaneous K-wire fixation appears to be safe and reliable option for the treatment of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.
PURPOSE This retrospective study was performed to know the clinical results after closed reduction and open reduction for completely displaced supracondylar fractures of distal humerus in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-eight cases of this injury at the mean age of 6.4 (range 21- 138 months), have been followed up over the minimum of one year. The types according to the position of displacement were 15 in posteromedial, and 13 in posterolateral displacement. There were 4 cases of associated nerve palsies (3;median, 1; radial). We tried the closed reduction (17 cases), but open reduction (11 cases) was indicated in irreducible cases with or without severe swelling. Then, the fractures were stabilized by percutaneous K-wires with lateral (23 cases) or cross pinning (5 cases). The differences of Baumann's angle, humero-ulnar angle, and elbow motion to uninjured side were calculated, and Flynn's criteria was used for evaluation. RESULTS All fractures were united without any infection or soft tissue compromise. The symptoms of injured nerve recovered within 8 weeks. According to Flynn's cirteria, results were excellent in eleven, good in 12, fair in 2, and poor in 3. The rates of satisfactory results over good were similiar between closed and open reduction, and the other factors including age and type of displacement were not meaningful. The mean Baumann's angle was 8.7 in closed and 6.6 in open reduction group. None of the patients showed restricted elbow motion above 10 degrees, even in 3 cases of hypertrophic scars in the group of open reduction. CONCLUSION The selective use of open reduction in completely displced supracondylar fractures of distal humerus in children, would show results as good as closed reduction.
A periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fracture is one of the complications of the total knee arthroplasty(TKA). The periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fracture after TKA occurs approximately 0.3% to 2.5% and various methods have been introduced to treat this fracture. We report three cases of supracondylar femoral fractures following TKA, with brief review of pertinent literatures, in which retrograde supracondylar intramedullary nail provided satisfactory results. In severe osteoporotic patient, firm fixation of the nail was obtained by using cement and early motion of the knee joint was possible. In addition, we found that the supracondylar intramedullary nail could be used without insertion difficulty in all PCL retaining TKA systems which were available in use in our country.
PURPOSE We tried to compare the clinical and the radiologic features between the extension and the flexion type of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between May 1995 to September 1999, 68 extension type and 7 flexion type fractures were treated surgically. Baumann's angle, humeroulnar angle, carrying angle, clinical result and clinical features were analyzed and the flexion types were compared with the extension types. Changes in Baumann's angle, humeroulnar angle and carrying angle were evaluated as Excellent or Good, Fair, Poor with reference to the opposite elbow by Kallio method. The Clinical results were evaluated as Excellent or Good, Fair, Poor by the modifying Kallio method. RESULTS Mean changes in Baumann's angle were 4.6degrees , 9.3degrees and those in the humeroulnar angle were 3.8degrees , 8.0degrees ( respectively in extension and flexion type (P=0.047, P=0.021, respectively). Changes in carrying angle were Excellent or Good( <10degrees ), Fair(10 ~15degrees ), Poor(> or =15degrees ) in 65, 1, 2 children in extension type and 3, 4, 0 children in flexion type, respectively. Clinical results were Excellent or Good, Fair, Poor in 59, 6, 3 children in extension type and 3, 4, 0 children in flexion type, respectively (P=0.002). CONCLUSION Changes of Baumann's angle and carrying angle in flexion type of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children were greater than those in extension type. The clinical results were poorer in flexion type. We suggested that treatment for flexion type supracondylar fractures should be careful and meticulous with frequent radiologic checkups and follow-ups. Also, if a reduction is not satisfactory with closed method, open reduction should not be hesitated.
PURPOSE In many cases of open comminuted supracondylar fracture, it is very hard to apply traditional methods. So we have used Ender nails for temporary transarticular fixation. We thought that it could provide enough stability to control the wound and didn't promote further soft tissue damage or infection. We performed 2nd stage rigid fixation and bone graft after soft tissue healing. We have studied to prove this staged operation valuable to treat the very severe open comminuted supracondylar fracture of femur. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analysed 16 cases which have been treated with such staged operation method from April 1992 to April 1996 about complication, union time and functional result in retrospective method. RESULTS We could prevent severe wound infection in all cases. We performed 2nd stage rigid fixation and bone graft average 6 weeks after first stage temporary fixation.
The average union time was 8 months and average range of motion was 10degrees flexion contracture and 100degrees further flexion. CONCLUSION In patients with very severe open comminuted supracondylar fracture of femur, the temporary fixation with transarticular Ender nails allowed the successful initial management for the secondary rigid fixation and bone graft and time could be saved for management of concomitant injuries. So this new staged operation is considered as a good method for safety, union time and functional result.
PURPOSE : The supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common elbow injury in children. They are commonly treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation. We measured the stability of supracondylar fractures, fixed with different configuration of pins, according to the each type of supracondylar fractures.
MATERIAL AND METHOD : We reviewed 42 supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children that were treated with percutaneous pon fixtion from 1988 to 1997. The follow up period ranged from 1.5 to 41 months. The patient's average age was 9.2 years. The most common cause of injury was fall down injury in thirty three. The extension type is the most common, accounting for 95% of cases. We compared the initial post-op films with the follow up films which was checked at 2-3weeks later to establilish the stability by assessing the anterior beak prominence of the proximal fragment on lateral radiograph. RESULT : There were 8 cases of Type II-A (hyperextension post cortext intact AP, lateral appearance), 10 cases of Typer II-B (displaced/ angulated with osseous contact AP, lateral appearance) and 24cases of Type III(completely displaced AP, lateral appearance). The greatest stability was achieved with two crossed pons placed from the medial and lateral condyles. Final failure of the fixation occurred in two cases of the group II-B, fixed with only two lateral pins. CONCLUSION : The two crossed pins which were placed from the medial and lateral condyles provided the greatest stability of the fracture fragment. When we treat the type II-B pattern fracture (displaced/ angulated with osseous contact AP, lateral appearance), we must check the rotational stability after lateral pin fixation. If the fracture is unstable, we must fix the fracture with additional medial crossed pin fixation.
PURPOSE : The purpose of our study in to determine the incidence of spontaneous recovery from neural injuries associated with supracondylar fractures of the humerus and to assess the results of electromyographic study and nerve conduction velocity.
Material & methods : The 160 displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus which had operation at the Sung Ae general hospital between April 1994 and 1998 were reviewed. Twelve(7.5%) were associated with complete neural injuries involving 16 nerves ; 9 radial, 5 ulnar and 2 median nerves. The mean age was 7.8 years old and boys outnumbered girls by 9 to 3. The follow-up period ranged from 1 year to 5 yeras 2 months. 11 fractures were managed with closed reduction and one with open means.
All of the neural injuries were initially managed only by closed observation. At recent follow-up examination, we assessed the motor and sensory neurological status with Seddon's modification, grip strength and two-point discrimination in the autonomous zone. Electromyography(EMG) and nerve conduction velocity(NCV) were performed in 13 nerves of 10 patients who were assessed as complete recovered clinically. Result : Spontaneous neurological recovery occurred in 11 patients(15 nerves) at a mean of 2.4 months(range, 2 to 3.5 months.) Clinically, these nerves were assessed as normal. In the EMG and NCVs, 4 of 13 nerves resulted in adnormal findings. 2 radial and 1 ulnar nerve showed mild sensory neuropathy and 1 ulnar nerve showed mild denervation potentials in EMG and slow motor and sensory NCVs. CONCLUSION : We think that neural injuries associated with the displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus tend towards spontaneous recovery within 4 months. And even though the neurologic recoveries are clinically complete, these are not always completely recovered in electromyographic study and nerve conduction velocity.
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.
Many authors have described percutaneous pinning techniques as the treatment of choice for most supracondylar fractures. But little information is available concerning ulnar nerve injury resulting from pinning techniques. When the surgeon is faced with a postoperative ulnar nerve palsy, it can be the result of unrecognized preoperative palsy, manipulation during surgery, or damage to the nerve by one of the medial pin placements. The options for management include exploration, medial pin removal, or observation.
We reviewed our hospital records on the 132 supracondylar elbow fractures that we treated in children from 1991 to 1998 There were 16 palsies found with normal preoperative and abnormal postoperative ulnar nerve function. Normal nerve function returned without exploration and early medial pin removal in all cases. We recommand that observation is the appropriate way to manage these postoperative ulnar nerve palsies in most cases.
PURPOSE The object of this retrospective study is to verify Baumanns angle as assessment methods of reduction for supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children and to confirm what is the more accurate assessment methods of supracondylar fracture of the humerus between Baumanns and metaphyseal-diaplyseal angle. MATERIALS AND METHODS 34 cases of more than 1 years follow up after closed reduction and pinning were reviewed. Simple linear regression has been used for statistical analysis and Pearsons correlation coefficient(rho) has been used for comparison of Baumanns angle and metaphy seal-diaphyseat angle. RESULTS The results form simple linear regression, about a 10 change in Baumanns angle contributes to a change in the carrying angle of approximately 3.7 on the uninjured(=-0.372, r=-0.750, P<0.001) and injured( =-0.365, r=-0.759, P<0.001) arms. In comparison of Baumanns angle and metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle to predict final carrying angle, the correlation coefficient between Baumanns angle and carrying angle(r=-0.759) was higher than that between metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle and carying angle(r=-0.495) with statistical significant using Fishers rho(P<0.05). CONCLUSION The Baumannss angle after reduction can be reliably used to predict accurately the final carrying angle and is more accurate than the metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle to predict the final carrying angle.
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Reliability of the Radiographic Parameters in Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture Yoon Hae Kwak, Dong Jou Shin, Kun Bo Park Journal of the Korean Fracture Society.2010; 23(1): 90. CrossRef
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of the Ilizarov method as a treatment of open or comminuted supracondylar fractures which are uncommon, and difficult to manage because of the wide range of potential complications. MATERIALS and METHODS Between 1992 and 1999, we treated open or comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur by Ilizarov method in whole period or conversion to OR/IF with or without bone graft after transient Ilizarov fixation. There were 13 cases in 11 patients. Open comminuted fractures were seven cases and closed comminuted fracutres were six cases. We compared Ilizarov method in all procedures and temporary mode followed by internal fixation for definite care. RESULTS According to Schatzker and Lamberts assessment the results were good or excellent in ten cases(77%). And the results were rated as good or excellent in 67% of case of Ilizarov method in all procedures, and 86% of cases changed to OR/IF. CONCLUSION Ilizarov technique is an useful method in cases of open and/or comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur. And after initial stabilization of fracture, conversion to OR/IF is advisable to prevent pin site infection and allow ROM excercise of the knee joint.
From June 1996 to February 1998, we reviewed the cases of 27 patients who had a displaced - extension type supracondylar fracture of the humerus retrospectively. The mean length of follow-up was 1.3 years. According to Gartland classification, type II was 7 cases (26%), type III-A was 11 cases (41%), type III-B was 9 cases (33%). We treated with three different methods, including closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner-wire fixation, skeletal traction, and cast application after closed reduction. In type II fractures, we used two parallel lateral pins. In type III fractures, we used 2 lateral parallel pins followed by 1 medial crossed pin predominantly. The results of treatment were assessed using the criteria of Flynn et al. We graded cosmetic and functional factors separately. Satisfactory results were achieved by percutaneous K-wire fixation(96%). There were seven neural lesions. These were the result of injury and not of the treatment, with exception of one case. Neural injuries spontaneously resolved at a mean of 2.5 months(range 1.5 to 5 months) after injury. Varus deformity was present in one patient. There was no Volkman's ischemic contracture. Percutaneous Kirschnerwire fixation is advocated as the method of choice for the majority of displaced-extension type supracondylar humerus fractures in children.
The cases of 160 patients who had a displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus were reviewed retrospectively. According to the Flynn's criteria, the results of treatment were excellent 33%, good 53%, fair 10%, poor 4%. No neurovascular complication was appeared. In two cases, cubitus varus deformity was appeared to be related with incorrect reduction. We believe that percutaneous k-wire fixation is excellent method in treatment of the displaced supracondylar fractures in children. There was no significant difference of clinical results among methods of percutaneous K-wire fixation but lateral 2 and medial 1 cross pinning has advantages : easy technique in insertion of lateral 2 pins, biomechanical stability and removal of medial pin in the irritation of ulna nerve without significant influence of stability.
The supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common fracture of the elbow in children and is occasionally associated with significant residual complications such as cubitus varus deformity. Clincal analysis was performed on 32 patients with displaced supracondylar fractures of humerus, who were treated either by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning or by open reduction and internal fixation. The results were as follows : 1. The average age of the children was 6.8 years old in both sexes, and male to female was 21 : 11. 2. The extension type was 26 cases(82%), flexion type was 6 cases(18%) and the left side was more frequently involved. 3. According to Pirone classification, type II was 14 cases, type III 18 cases. 4. There was no significant difference in the mean duration of bony union between the percutaneous group and the open reduction group. 5. Cubitus varus deformity and limitation of elbow motion were more common complications in open reduction group.
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The Effect of Rotational Deformities on Cubitus Varus for Supracondylar Humerus Fractures in Children Hyun Dae Shin, Kyung Cheon Kim, Dong Kyu Kim, Woo Yong Lee Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association.2010; 45(5): 373. CrossRef
The supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common fracture of the elbow in children. New trends of treatment is that if satisfactory reduction is achieved by manual reduction, medial and lateral cross percutaneous pin fixation is better than others for stable fixation. Among many complications, cubitus varus deformity most commonly results from inaccurate reduction and failure in maintenance of fixation. The obliquity of the fracture, together with internal rotation, causes angular deformity. The angulation and coronal rotation, or tilting of distal fragment, often cause the deformity and limitation of motion of elbow. The porty-two Gartland type II, III supracondylar fractures of the humerus were treated by losed reduction or open reduction with percutaneous pinning or internal fixation from May 1993 to December 1995. The results were as follows; 1. the frequency of difference above 5degree in Baumann's angle was relatively high if fracture line is oblique on lateral roentgenogram or medial column comminution is present, that means unstable reduction. 2. In average, 2.7 pins were needed for reduction and maintenance of stability at this time. 3. Even though a few degree of rotation(5mm), translation(2-4mm) and angulation(5-10degree) were present at immediate reduction, carrying angle and Baumann's angle of follow-up period were often remained about the similar values compared with healthy side. If acceptable intraoperative carrying angle was achieved and a few degree of rotation, translation and angulation were permitted after reduction, varus deformity and limitation of motion of elbow were rerely caused. so repeating forceful manual reduction for anatomical reduction must be avoided because the final results may become progressively remodelled to normal.
Supracondylar nailing is one of the treatment methods for supracondylar fractures of the femur but it needs arthrotomy. We introduce a mew technique of supracondylar nailing under the arthroscopy without arthrotomy. It is closed reduction and intramedullary supracondylar nailing under the arthroscopic control. The potential benefits of this method are decreased unnecessary soft tissue dissection, excellent intraarticular visualization and reduction, decreased blood loss and shortened operative time and postoperative rcovery. We performed this new technique on 4 cases of supracondylar fractures of the femur. Theresults were as follows; 1. Among the 4 cases, 3 cases were AO type A and 1 case was AO type C. 2. All cases showed bony union and average range of knee motion was 110 degrees. 3. The operation time ranged from 60 minutes to 170 minutes and averaging 110 minutes.
We treated supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children by early closed reduction and K-wires fixation using two lateral parallel K-wires for partially displaced fractures(Gartland Ib, II) and three K-wires,two lateral and one additional medial crossed K-wire for type III fractures. This study is to analyze our method for the treatment of supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children. Sixty-two fractures(4 type Ib, 20 type II and 38 type III) underwent K-wires fixation after closed reduction of the fracture from October 1994 to April 1997 were included in this study. The patients age ranged from 2 years and 2 months to 12 years and 7 months, averaging 6 years and 2 months. All the fractures were treated within 24 hours after arrival in the hospital. After general anesthesia, each fracture was reduced manually and fixed by K-wires under fluoroscopic control. Two lateral parallel K-wire were used for fixation of all type Ib and II fractures. We tried to keep the gap between two K-wires be 1 cm or more. In type III fractures, fractures were fixed by two parallel lateral K-wires and followed by one medial crossed K-wire. The K-wires were removed after averaging 3.2 weeks after operation in out patient clinic. The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 34 months. averaging 14 months. By Flynn's functional and cosmetic criteria, 37 fractures (97.4%) among 38 type III fractures resulted in satisfactory criteria. All of the type I and II fractures (100%) resulted in satisfactory criteria. In conclusion, our decision is considered as safe and reliable option for the treatment of supracondylar fractures of the humrus in children.
Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common elbow fracture in children. It can be complicated by Volkmanns ischemic contracture, nerve injury, deformity of elbow, joint stiffness, and myositis ossificans, etc. even after the treatment. Various methods of treating displaced supracondylar rracture have been described, and the indications for open reduction and internal fixation are relatively established well. The surgeon, however, might be in trouble with making decision for closed reduction, whether to maintain by casting or by percutaneous pinning. From fan. 1990 to May 1990, 117 patients of supracondylar tracture had been treated in Seoul Adventist Hospital, and 82 patients of them were challenged initially by closed reduction and casting. Among them, 51 cases have been followed more than 1 year, and they are reviewed.
1. The average age was 7.2 years, and the patient population consisted of 33 boys and 18 girls. 2. 3 cases of nerve injuries, 2 cases of ipsilateral forearm bone fractures, 2 cases of impending Volkmanns ischemic contracture and 1 case of cerebral contusion were associated with supracondylar fracture. 3. Fracture pattern were classified as flexion type of 1 case and extension type of 50 cases. According to Gartland classification, type II was 16 cases(31.4%), type III-A was 27(52.9%) and III-B was 7(13.7%). Of all, 28 cases(54.9%) were comminuted and 23 were non-comminuted. On the other hand, 14 cases(27.5%) were oblique fracture and 37(72.5%) were transverse one, classified by pattern of fracture line. 4. Success rate of closed reduction and casting were 56.3% in Garland type II, 33.3% in type III-A, 42.9% in type III-B. In comminuted fracture, it was 21.4% and 65.2% in non-comminuted one. Success rate was 7.1% in oblique fracture, and 54.1% in transverse one. This suggests that comminuted fracture or oblique fracture should not be tried by closed reduction and casting but by percutaneous pinning. 87.5% of non-comminuted and transverse fractures were treated successfully by initial closed reduction and casting, and it also suggests that closed reduction and casting should be done only in this case selectively.
5. By Flynns criteria the results were excellent in 9 cases, good in 8, fair in 3 and poor in 1 with casting. Percutaneous pinning resulted in 15 excellent, 10 good, and 1 fair cases. Open reduction and internal fixation resulted in 2 excellent and 2 good cases.
We reviewed retrospectively 53 cases of supracondylar fracture of humerus in children which were severely displaced(Gartland type III). All patients were treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Purpose of this study is to evaluate the residual effect of incompletely reduced fragment, especially of rotation of distal fragment(represented by fish-tail sign) on clinical relults. The quality of reduction was determined by carrying angle, varus tilting, existence of fish-tail sign and medial displacement. Of the 53 elbows, fish tail signs only presented in twelve cases(50.0%), medial tilting combined with fish tail in five(20.8%) and medial displacements in seven cases(29.2%). Final results by Flynn et al. were as follows; Excellent was in 40 cases(15.9%), Good in 6(11.3%), Fair in 1(1.8%), poor in 6(11.3%). Six cases of poor outcomes resulted from cubitus varus deformed elbow, of which cubitus varus deformity developed in 5 cases of medial tilted distal fragment, one developed in medially displaced fragment, and cases presented with fish tail sign(rotation of distal fragment) had no contribution to cubitus varus deformity yielding acceptable clinical results. In conclusion, even though the quantification of fish tail sign is needed, fish tail sign only presenting on fluorscopy might be acceptable in operative room.
Supracondylar fracture of distal humerus is up to 60% of all fractures around the elbow in children. Complications of this fracture include nerve injury, arterial injury, skin slough, Volkmanns ischemic contracuture, and changes in carrying angle. Many different treatment methods to minimize these complications have been devised. Recently, closed reduction and percutaneous pinning with K-wire is most widely used in treating supracondylar fractures in children exept in some rare cases such as unreducible fracture by closed reduction. However, troublesome changes in the carrying angle which do not interfere with function but the appearance of the arm is unsatisfactory, continue in approximately 30% of most series. We reviewed 59 cases which were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning in supracondylar fracuture of the humerus. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the cosmetic and functional results and complications and to analysis the relationship between the stability of reduction and method of pinning.
The results are as follows; 1) There were many cosmetic problems, actually. Change over 10 degrees in carrying angle compared to the normal site was as high as 10 cases(17%) of 59 cases.
2) There was no functional problem such as limitatioin of motion.
3) There was no significant complication.
4) The cross pinning fixation was more stable than lateral pinning fixation only.
5) Accurate anatomical reduction is required to prevent unsatisfactory result regardless the treatment method.
The purpose of this study is extraction of acceptable angulation range of humeral supracondylar fracture in children. Forty five cases of humeral supracondylar fracture were examined for 5 years and 5 months from February, 1990 to June, 1995.
For analysis of the result according to angulation of distal fracture fragment of the reduction of fracture site, we measured the valgus-varus angle and rotatory angle of distal fracture fragment. Forty five cases were classified into three groups for the evaluation of result. If the distal fragment has valgus angulation below 5 degrees or rotaion angulation below 5 degrees, classified as group I. valgus angulation above 5 degrees and below 10 degrees or varus angulation below 5 degrees or rotation angulation above 5 degrees below 10 degrees, classified as group II, varus angulation above 5 degees or rotation angulation above 10 degrees, classified as group III.
For evaluation of result, we standardized the range of motion, the change of carrying angle, the deformity of elbow. We gave point to these items, thus, total point above 10 points was evaluated as excellent, 8~9 points as good, below 7 points as unsatisfactory, Group I showed good result in 21 cases among 22 cases, in Group II, good result to in 16 cases among 18 cases. In Group I and II, the good result is 95%, 38 cases among 40 cases. Thus, we concluded that the acceptable range in reduction of humeral supracondylar fracture in children is valgus angle below 10 degrees, varus angle below 5 degrees, rotation angle below 10 degrees.
The treatment of supracondylar fracture of humerus in children has so many pitfalls as to be once called - supracondylar dilemma -.
The authors analyzed the follow up results of 53 displaced extension type supracondylar fractures treated by closed reduction and cast, closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, skeletal traction and open reduction from 1993 to 1995.
The following results were obtained : 1. Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning produced the best radiographic and clinical result by Flynns criteria when compared to other methods.
2. No difference in radiographical stability was found between percutaneous pinning with one medial and one lateral pin as opposed to two lateral pins.
3. There was a strong correlation between the change in Baumanns angle and the carrying angle(p=0.03).
Open reduction and internal fixation should be considered for the AO classification type C supracondylar fracture of the femur. However serious complications such as infection and nonunion can occur after extensive stripping of the soft tissue. We will analyze the usefulness of the intramedullary supracondylar nail for treatment of the 1 cases of the difficult supracondylar fracture such as AO type C fracture, nonunion and supracondylar fracture associated with ipsilateral hip fracture. Follow up period of 7 cases was at least 18 months.
1. 5 cases of 7 were AO type C and 2 cases of 7 were associated with ipsilateral hip fracture.
2. 2 cases of 1 rere nonunion and 2 cases of 7 were grade III open fracture in Gustilo classification.
3. 5 cases of 7 had bone union and average range of motion of the knee was 90 degree.
4. There was no infection, but t case was complicated with the femoral shaft fracture near the proximal nail tip, and 2 cases were complicated with the metal failure at the fracture site resulting nonunion.
5. Intramedullary supracondylar nail was very useful tool for the very difficult supracondylar fracture of the femur due to minimal incision, minimal soft tissue dissection and rigid fixation. But this nail was not available for the proximally extended fracture of the femoral shaft.
The retrograde supracondylar interlocking nail has been selectively used for the treatment of the supracondylar fracture of the femur. The open method using open medial arthrotomy increases the morbidity of the knee joint while the blind technique using minimal incision can cause the intra-articular complications owing to its blindness of procedure.
In this article, we sought the safe method of insefion to reduce the complications of knee joint by minimal incision and also, using the auhroscopic guide.
According to our method using arthrposcopic technique we concluded it has the potential benifits over the open or blind methods as early knee enercise, early soft tissue healing, decreased risk of damage to the intra-articular stiuctures, earlier convalescence with reduced hospitalization time, and better cosmesis.
Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common fracture around the elbow joint in children, especially in the age from 4 to 9. 97% of the fractures are extension type and there are many problems in management such as the method of reduction and maintenance of reduction, Volkmanns ischemia, neurovascular injuries, cubitus varus or valgus deformity, and myositis ossificans etc.
Currently the methods of treatment of supracondylar fracture include open reduction and pin fixation, closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation, and closed reduction and immobilization by splint.
134 children with supracondylar fracture of humerus, conservatively 49 cases and operative 85 cases, were treated from January 1991 to October 1995 and were followed up for at least 6 months.
We analyBed the type of fracture, method of treatment and results and concluded that accurate reduction, minimizing soft tissue injury and maintenance of reduction are important factors for gaining good results.
It is extremely difficult to treat to the comminuted open fractures of supracondyle of femur Internal fixation with plates and screw or intramedullary nailing of open fracture is high risk of infection and circulatory compromising at the fracture site. External fixation reduces the risk of infection and permits easy access for wound care, early mobilizatioll of joints and weight bearing.
We reviewed nine cases of open supracondylar fractures of femur treated with Ilizarov method from February 1993 to December 1995 and obtained the following results.
1. The average time of bony union was 2 weeks. According to AO classification, the average time of bony union was 22.7 weeks in type A and 29.3 weeks in type C. According to classification of Gustilo and Anderson, the average time of bony union was 21 weeks in type II,27.3 weeks in type Illa and 30 weeks in type IIIb.
2. The Neers criteria was based on the final functional and anatomical rating for supracondylar fracture of femur. According to this criteria, excellent was 1 case, satisfactory in 7 cases and unsatisfactory in 1 case.
3. The complications were divided into problem, obstacle and complication;Problem in 9 cases, bstacle in 5 cases and complication in 3 cases.
We conculded the Ilizarov technique is a useful method in management of the severe comminuted fractures and extensive soft tissue injury of the supracondylar fractures of femur.
Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the Inost common fracture of the elbow in children and it can aiso be one of the most difficult fractures to be treated. The authors periormed retrospective study of 85 patients who were treated by percutaneous pinning, and by open reduction from 1989 to 1993.
1. The mean age 7.4 years, ranging from 2 years to 13 years and the male and female ralio was 2.1:1 2. The left side was more frequently involved(66%).
3. Treatment methods were PP 52% & OR 48% 4. According to tile Flynns criteria, the results of the treatment by PP wear excellent 80%, Good 4%. Fair 9%, Poor 7% and OR were 54%, 12%, 15%, 19%, respectively.
5. No stastisfically significant differences regarding maintenance of reduction were found when comparing crossd-pin and lateral-pin fixation.
The treatment of supracondylar fractures of the femur is still evolving and the results of different methods are still incomplete and controversial. Severe soft tissue damage, comminution and intraarticular extension of fracture lead to unsatisfactory results in many cases, regardless of the adequate treatment.
We reviewed 26 cases of supracondylar fractures of the femur treated by internal fixation excluding isolated condylar fracture of the femur(type B by AO classification), according to the rating system of Neer et at. with average follow up period of 19 months(range 14 months to 34 months). According to AO classification, 11 cases(42.3%) were type A and 15 cases(57.7%) were type C. Of the twenty six cases, 8 cases were treated with anatomical plate fixation, 7 cases with dynamic condylar screw, 4 cases with AO-DCP, 3 cases with angle blade plate, 2 cases with Judet plate and 2 cases with IM nail.
The results obtained were as follows; 1. The average time of clinical union was 21 weeks in type A and 23.1 weeks in type C.
2. According to Neers criteria, excellent were in 5 cases, satisfactory in 12 cases and unsatisfactory in 9 cases.
3. The complications were delayed union in 5 cases, deep infection in 2 cases in open fractures, angular deformity in 11 cases, and Bimited range of motion below 90 degrees in 11 cases.
Displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children should be carefully considered in choosing treatment method because of many complications and difficulties of operative technique. We analyzed the follow up results of 94 patients treated by closed reduction and application of cast(CR), skeletal traction(57), percutaneous pinning after closed reduction(PP) and open reduction with internal fixation(OR) from Jan. 1989 to Jan. 1994. The results were as follows: 1. The mean age was 7.5 years old in both sexes, and male to female ratio was 2.5:1.
2. According to Gartland classification, type II was 23 cases, type III a was 42 cases and type III b was 29 cases.
3. Of all fractures, 31 cases were treated by CR, 7 cases by 57,47 cases by PP and 9 cases were treated by OR.
4. According to Flynn criteria, the excellent result of the treatment was 50% followed by CR,57% followed by 57, 79% followed by 57 and 63% followed by OR.
5. There was no significant difference in the mean duration of bony union regardless of fracture type and treatment modalities.
6. The mean duration of hospital stay was longest at 57 group(14 days) and shortest at PP group(4 days).
7. PP producted the best radiographic and functional results and accessibility.
Two patients of nonunion of supracondylar fracture of femur with bone loss and angular deformity were treated by the Ilizarov external fixator.
Large bone defect was closed by bone transport technique and angular deformity was corrected by means of hinges on the Ilizarov apparatus. The final results were satisfactory in two cases.
We evaluated the clinical results of the closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation for supracondylar fracture of the humerus in thirty patients who were treated from Jan 1990 to Nov 1993. We analyzed the relationships between non-anatomical reduction and occurrence of varus deformity in displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.
The following results were obtained: 1. There were twenty-two males and eight females, twelve cases of type IIB and eighteen cases of type IIIfractures by Gartland classification. Posteromedial displacement and fractures through the olecranon fossa were most common pattern.
2. After closed reduction, eleven rotations and three medial displacements of distal fragment, and three angular deformities of medial cortex were observed in eleven cases.
3. Radiologically, the differences of carrying angle compared with normal side were decreased in twenty-one cases, no changes in three cases, and increased in six cases.
4. Two cubitus varus deformities were developed in decreased cases more than six degrees of carrying angle with residual rotation and medial displacement.
5. We obtained relatively good results in supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children treated by closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation with grossly normal carrying angle.
The purpose of this paper is to report the technical problems, indications and contraindications of treatment by interlocked intramedullary nail in supracondylar fracture of the femur.
The authors analyEed 5 cases of femoral supracondylar fractures in patients who were treated by interlocked intramedullary nailing.
All 5 cases treated with interlocked intramedullary nail were obtained primary bone union.
According to Neers criteria, excellent result was achieved in 1 patient, satisfactory and unsatisfactory results in 2 patients, respectively.
In conclusion, we consider that interlocked intramedullary nail fit as follows: 1. Type A of AO classification.
2. In case of more proximally located fracture.
3. Supracondylar fracture of the femur with severe communited fracture of the ipsilateral femora diaphyses but unfit as follows; 1) Supracondylar fracture of the femur with severe osteoporosis.
2) In case of more distally located fracture.
3) Type C of AO classification.
The treatment of supracondylar fractures of the femur remains many problem because of its complications. Particularly, the type C fracture of AO classification causes the traumatic arthritis, limitation of motion, shortening, as well as angular deformity, especially varus. In the past, there has been a reluctance toward treatment of supracondylar fractures of the frmur with internal fixation.
But, recently, a trend toward internal fixation has become evident and good results has been reported by several authors.
We studied 9 cases of type C of AO classification of supracondylar fracture of the femur at our hospital from January,1989 to February, 1993.
The longest follow up was 49 months and the shortest was 12 months, the average being 22.2 months And the results were as follows 1. Age distribution was between 29 and 60 years old, and the ratio between male and females was 5:4. The most common cause of injury was traffic accident.
2. Seven patients were associated with injuries of other parts and the most frequent associated fracture was patellar fracture and the most common associated injury was cerebral contusion.
3. The average time of clincal union was 22 weeks in operative treatment and 13 weeks in conserv alive treatment.
4. In type C AO classification, 6 out of 9 cases treated by anatomical reduction and early motion achieved good to excellent results(50%), but all type C3 fractures is healed in slightly varus position.
5. In conclusion, type C3 of the supracondylar fracture of femur should be reduced to the neutral or slightly valgus position, or the ends of distal cancellous screws should be penetrated the medial femoral cortex because of progressing varus deformity after operation.
The supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the most common elbow fracture in children.
There are much controversies for the treatment and variable and frequent complication such as cubitus varus and joint stiffness, etc.
For the period of 3 years and 10 months from Mar. 1990 to Dec. 1993, 62 patients with supracondylar fracture of humerus were admitted and treated at the Department of Orthopaedic surgery, College of Medicine, Dong-A University Among them,34 patients who were followed up more than 6 months were reviewed retrospectively.
The results are as follows 1. The average age was 6.4 years and sex ratio of male to female was 3.9:1.
2. The extension type was 79.4%, and flexion type was 20.6%. The ratio of left to right was 1.43:1 3. The most common cause of injury is fall from a height in 18 cases (52.9%).
4. The mean duration of bone union was 42.3 days.
5. According to the Holnlberg classification, 3 cases belong to group I(8.8%), 9 to Group II(26.5%),10 to Group III (29.4%), and 12 to Group IV(35.3%).
6. By Flynns criteria, the satisfactory results was in 31 cases(91.2%), and unsatisfactory in 3 cases (6.3%). In Holmberg classification, the higher severity, the higher joint stiffness made the prognosis worse.
7. In conclusion, we believe that percutaneous pinning was a simple, effective method for treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus, and the accurate anatomical reduction was required to prevent cubitus varus deformity, which is one of the most serious complication.