Metaizeau Technique for Displaced Radial Neck Fracture among Children in Erbil, Kurdistan Regional Government, Iraq

Abstract

Background and objectives: Radial neck fracture if not propely managed can lead to complications including pain and avascular necrosis. The Metaizeau technique of closed intramedullary pinning is a treatment option and it is the aim of this study to assess its outcome. Methods: Metaizeau technique was used in managing radial neck fracture of 21 children at two emergency hospitals in Erbil, Kurdistan region, Iraq. between July 2018 and September 2019. Postoperative outcome were assessed according to the Metaizeau classification and Mayo performance score to assess degree of residual angulation as well as for postoperative complications such as joint stiffness. Results: Median follow up time was 10 months (7-12 months). The children’s median age was nine years (6-11 years), among which 11 (52%) cases were females. According to Judet classification, 9 (43%) children had class IVb fracture while 8 (38%) had class IVa and only 4 (19%) cases had class III fracture. The median fracture angulation prior to the surgery was 75° (ranged between 50-85°). By the end of the follow up, 19 (90.5%) cases achieved excellent results according to the Metaizeau classification while the remaining two (9.5%) had good outcome with mild degree of angulation of 8° and 14° respectively. Conclusions: Metaizeau method is technically easy with a simple learning curve and is highly effective with excellent functional outcomes and that the rate of postoperative complications is rare compared to reported cases of radial neck fracture managed with open reduction and internal fixation