Open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation for treatment of humeral lateral condylar fractures in children

Abstract

Objective To investigate the early diagnosis and treatment strategies of lateral condylar fractures of humerus in children.Methods From July 2010 to July 2012,15 patients with humeral lateral condyle fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with Kirschner wires in our hospital.The treatment outcomes were assessed using Flynn functional criteria and radiographical assessment of osteoarthritis or heterotopic ossification around the elbow.Results All the patients were follow-up for a mean time of 18.5 months (range,13 to 27 months).Bony healing was achieved in all the patients,within an average of 2.0 months (range,1.4 to 2.7 months).No nonunion and delayed union were observed in X-ray films.According to Flynn criteria,the results were excellent in 13 cases and good in 2 cases.Conclusion Displaced humerus lateral condyle fracture is easy to be misdiagnosed or missed because ossification occurs late in children.The fracture therefore doesn't show on X-rays.Early diagnosis is important in order to reduce various deformities and complications.Open reduction and crossed Kirschner wire fixation can lead to satisfactory reduction and firm fixation with fewer complications.At present it is an ideal method for treatment of lateral condylar fracture of humerus in children. Key words: Child; Humerus fractures; Early diagnosis; Lateral condyle