Pediatric elbow and forearm fractures requiring surgical treatment

Abstract

In the modern pediatric orthopedic practice, operative management plays a vital and not infrequent role in the management of significant and difficult forearm and elbow fractures in the skeletally immature. Although the majority of forearm and many elbow fractures can be treated successfully by nonoperative measures, operative intervention is warranted in selected cases to optimize outcomes. Anatomic reconstruction of articular surfaces, along with obtaining and maintaining a stable, anatomic fracture reduction, are the goals of any operative treatment. Appropriate use of surgical techniques for pediatric forearm and elbow fractures, when indicated, is essential to optimize results and achieve the ultimate goal of a pain-free functional extremity for the child.