A comparative study of percutaneous pinning techniques (Cross K wire vs lateral K wire) for Gartland type III pediatric supracondylar fracture of the humerus

Abstract

Background: Supracondylar fractures of Humerus are one of the most common fractures in the children. Closed reduction and percutaneous k wire fixation are one of the most commonly used and widely accepted treatment modality in Gartland type 3 fracture, but controversy continues regarding the ideal pin fixation techniques. This study was conducted to compare lateral divergent k wires versus cross k wire (medial and lateral) in terms of the stability, functional outcome and iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury. Material and Method: This was a retrospective record based study. Total 30 patients of displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus of age 3-12 years were divided into 2 groups which were evaluated from post-surgery. In group one crossed pinning was done for type 3 supracondylar fractures and other group was treated with lateral pinning and outcome of these patients record was assessed on basis of pain, motion, stability and function according to Flynn’s criteria and follow-up record of 2 year was studied. Data was analysed with the help of SPSS 20.0 version.Results: According to Flynn criteria, the final result was excellent in 90 %and good in 10 % of cases with 0% fair and 0% poor results. There was no statistically significant difference between medial-lateral entry group and lateral entry group.Conclusions: Lateral pinning is an equally good as compared to crossed pinning treatment of choice in terms of terms of the stability and functional outcome. The risk of ulnar nerve injury was zero in lateral divergent k wires. Both these methods give comparable functional and cosmetic results.