Displaced fractures of the medial humeral condyle in children.

Abstract

Fracture of the medial humeral condyle in children is an epiphyseal injury, and it is probably caused by a valgus force incurred with the elbow extended, the origin of the flexor muscles and medial collateral ligament avulsing and rotating the condyle. The injury is uncommon and is easily misdiagnosed. Four children who were treated within one week of injury were seen more than one year later and had good results. Two patients who were treated late and another who was not treated had poor results. Early diagnosis, accurate reduction, and internal fixation are important to avoid growth disturbance, articular incongruence, and functional disability.