Humeral Fractures Research Articles

Presentation to the Emergency Department Increases the Likelihood of Surgical Management of Minimally Displaced Gartland Type IIa Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures.

Few studies have explored factors influencing the clinical decision-making process in the management of Gartland type IIa supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHFs). This study sought to determine whether the location of patient presentation and patient socioeconomic status are associated with the treatment of type IIa SCHFs. This was a retrospective review of 262 patients younger than 13 years of age seen for acute Gartland type II SCHFs between 2012 and 2022. Pre-treatment radiographs were reviewed to measure Baumann angle and the location of the anterior humeral line relative to the capitellum. Demographic characteristics and socioeconomic status, measured through Child Opportunity Index (COI) scores, were generated and logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between location of presentation and fracture management. Logistic regressions were also used to evaluate the relationship between COI and location of presentation and treatment. 137 male and 125 female patients met the inclusion criteria with a mean age of 5.95 (0.13) years at the time of presentation. Presentation to the emergency department (ED) demonstrated reduced odds of closed reduction and casting compared to outpatient clinic presentation [0.13 (95% CI: 0.02-0.98), P=0.048]. 27.5% of minimally displaced fractures that presented to the ED and 20.0% of minimally displaced fractures that presented to an outpatient clinic were treated surgically. There was no association between COI and the location of patient presentation [1.2 (95% CI: 0.9-1.5), P=0.226] or treatment received [1.04 (95% CI: 0.48-2.26), P=0.922]. These results suggest that patients who present to the ED after type IIa SCHFs are more likely to receive surgical treatment. COI does not appear to be associated with the location of presentation or treatment received. Prognostic level III.

The Relationship Between Obesity and Lateral Condyle Fracture Healing: A Pilot Study.

Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern in the United States. Obesity has been shown to lead to increased complications with regards to orthopaedic injuries, such as more severe fracture patterns, notably observed in injuries like lateral condyle fractures of the humerus. However, there is currently a gap in the literature regarding the relationship between obesity and the healing potential of these fractures. This study aims to determine whether obesity is associated with increased surgical time, wound/pin site infections, delayed union/nonunion, and time to union in pediatric patients with lateral condyle fractures of the humerus. A retrospective chart review was conducted at a level 1 trauma center on all patients 18 years or younger who sustained a lateral condyle fracture of the humerus. Patients were stratified into groups based on their body mass index-for-age percentile as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; normal weight (<85%), overweight (85 to <95%), and obese (≥95%). Demographic data, Weiss classification, postoperative complications (infection, delayed union or nonunion, malunion, and need for repeat surgery), length of surgery, and time to union were recorded. Comparisons of categorical data were analyzed using χ2 tests. Analysis of variance was used to compare the means between weight cohorts for continuous data. A total of 123 patients were analyzed. Sixty-six were categorized as normal weight, 20 were overweight, and 37 were obese. There were no significant differences between weight classes for any complications, including infection, delayed/nonunion, malunion, or repeat surgery. There was no correlation with fracture severity as defined by the Weiss classification of lateral condyle fractures in regards to weight cohort (P = 0.098). There was no significant difference in length of surgery (P = 0.393) or average time to union (P = 0.236) between the weight cohorts. In this study, population with higher pediatric obesity rates than the population average, there was no significant correlation between body mass index-for-age and each of the surgical complications reviewed, length of surgery, or time to union, indicating the healing potential of lateral condyle fractures in obese pediatric patients is no more compromised than that of their normal weight peers. Level III-a retrospective study.

Comparison of Functional Outcome of Proximal Humerus Management with K-Wire versus PHILOS Plate

Background: Background: Proximal humerus fractures account for approximately 4% of all fractures and 26% of humeral fractures. While conservative treatment is often recommended, surgical management remains debated, particularly with the use of percutaneous pinning and PHILOS plating.Objective: To compare the functional outcomes of proximal humerus fractures managed with percutaneous pinning versus PHILOS plating using Constant and Murley’s score.Methods: This prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted at Services Hospital, Lahore, over 18 months. A total of 128 patients were randomized into two groups: Group A (Percutaneous Pinning, n=64) and Group B (PHILOS Plating, n=64). Demographic data were recorded, and functional outcomes were assessed using Constant and Murley’s score at the 24th week. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25, with independent t-tests and chi-square tests applied, considering p&lt;0.05 significant.Results: The mean Constant and Murley score were 84.58 ± 8.561 in Group A and 86.48 ± 7.622 in Group B (p=0.186). Favorable outcomes were seen in 34.4% (n=44) in Group A and 42.2% (n=54) in Group B (p=0.037).Conclusion: PHILOS plating proved a higher rate of favorable outcomes compared to percutaneous pinning, suggesting its preferable use for proximal humerus fracture management.

Impact of augmentation strategy variations on the mechanical characteristics of patients with osteoporotic proximal humerus fractures with medial column instability.

Low bone density and lack of medial support are the two most important factors affecting the stability of locking plate fixation for osteoporotic proximal humeral fractures (PHFs). This study aimed to compare the biomechanical characteristics of PHILOS locking plates combined with calcar screws, bone cement, fibular allografts, and medial locking plate support strategies for treating osteoporotic PHFs with medial column instability. A three-part osteoporotic PHF (AO 11-B3.2) model with metaphyseal loss was generated using 40 synthetic humeri and fixed via four distinct medial support strategies. All models were mechanically tested to quantify the mechanical characteristics. Subsequently, finite element models were created for each biomechanical test case. The stress distribution and displacement of the four different fixation structures were analyzed using finite element analysis. The results demonstrated that the PHILOS locking plate combined with the medial locking plate, exhibited the greatest stability when subjected to axial, shear, and torsional loading. Furthermore, the PHILOS locking plate combined with bone cement showed structural stability similar to that of the PHILOS locking plate combined with fibular allograft but with lower stress levels on the fracture surface. In conclusion, the PLP-MLP fixation structure showed superior biomechanical properties under axial, shear, and torsional loading compared to other medial support methods. Repairing the medial support when treating osteoporotic PHFs with medial column instability can enhance the mechanical stability of the fracture end in both the short and long term.

Comparative risk of ulnar nerve injury in pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures: a multicenter evaluation of Kirschner wire fixation techniques.

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study aimed to compare the risk of ulnar nerve injury in pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures treated with percutaneous lateral-pins, blinded-crossed-pins, and crossed-pins with a mini-incision. Data were collected from 1705 children treated between January 2010 and December 2023 at four orthopedic centers in Colombia. The incidence of postoperative ulnar nerve injury was compared among three fixation techniques: lateral-pin, blinded-crossed-pin, and crossed-pin with a mini-incision. A statistically significant difference in nerve injury rates was observed between the lateral-pin and both blinded-crossed-pin and mini-incision crossed-pin techniques (p < 0.001), with the lateral-pin technique demonstrating a significantly lower risk of injury. No significant difference was found between the blinded-crossed-pin and mini-incision crossed-pin techniques (p = 0.67). Crossed-pin fixation was associated with a higher incidence of ulnar nerve injury, regardless of the use of a mini-incision. The lateral-pin technique remains the safest option for minimizing iatrogenic nerve injury. There is insufficient evidence to support the mini-incision as a safer alternative to traditional crossed-pin fixation.

Predictive Factors for Poor Prognosis in Non-Surgical Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures in Elderly Patients.

Proximal humerus fractures (PHF) are common in the elderly, accounting for significant morbidity and mortality. Non-surgical treatment is a common option for low-demand elderly patients, but it can lead to unsatisfactory functional outcomes in some cases.The identification of predictive factors for poor prognosis in non-surgical management remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the predictive factors for poor prognosis in elderly patients treated non-surgically for displaced PHF and to assess associated complications. A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving patients aged 60 years or older with displaced PHF treated non-surgically from May 2020 to January 2023 at a reference hospital for orthopedic trauma. The primary outcome was functional assessment using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scale at 12 months. Predictive factors such as metaphyseal fracture comminution, Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) scores, and radiographic criteria were analyzed. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of poor outcomes. Out of 140 initially selected patients, 103 met the inclusion criteria and completed the follow-up. The mean ASES score was 71.3±25.4 points. Multivariate analysis identified metaphyseal comminution (p < 0.001) and PCS scores ≥ 30 (p < 0.001) as significant predictors of poorer functional outcomes. Complications were observed in 17.4% of patients, including osteonecrosis (6.7%), nonunion (4.9%), and persistent pain and stiffness (5.8%). Metaphyseal comminution and high PCS scores are significant predictors of poor prognosis in elderly patients undergoing non-surgical treatment for displaced PHF. These findings highlight the importance of considering both biomechanical and psychological factors when managing proximal humerus fractures in this population. Further studies with larger sample sizes and prospective designs are needed to validate these findings and refine treatment strategies.

Surgical Treatment of the Frontal Plane Distal Humerus Fractures

The frontal plane fractures of the distal humerus are rare. The small intraarticular fragments, the commonly encountered osteoporosis and the specific anatomy make the successful osteosynthesis a challenge. For a period of 15 years in First Clinic of Orthopaedic Traumatology 27 patients with capitulotrochlear fractures were treated. Of them, 12 women and 3 men were followed. The fractures were classified after Dubberley as follows: Type 1А - 1, type 2А - 2, type 2В - 3, type 3А - 5, type 3В – 1, and type 4В - 3. A plethora of surgical exposures were used - extended lateral, paratricipital, a combination of medial and lateral, dorsal with olecranon osteotomy. Primary TEA was performed in 3 patients: Type 3A - 1, type 3В – 1, and type 4В - 1. The patients were followed for a period of 12 months to 8 years. The results were evaluated by the MEPS, DASH and McGowan scores. The final ROM, compared to the contralateral side, was recorded. The average scores are comparable with the ones in a number of publications in the referent literature. As evaluated by MEPS, excellent results were found in 53% of patients, good – in 27%, fair in 7%, and poor –in 13%. The most serious problem was the elbow stiffness. Early deep infection was found in 1 patient with type 4B fracture. Ectopic ossification Hastings type I was found in 1 patient. The modern surgical treatment is based on anatomical reduction through fracture type-specific surgical exposure and rigid osteosynthesis. The treatment of choice for irreparable fractures is total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). We discuss the fixation devises, the surgical exposures and the osteosynthesis construct. Our own osteosynthesis preferences are centered around the fixation in the frontal plane and the additional augmentation with sagittal plane implants.

Single-Plate versus Dual-Plate Utilization for Treatment of Humeral Shaft Fractures: A Retrospective Clinical Series

Objectives Dual plating is the current standard of care for displaced distal humerus fractures and even some metadiaphyseal humeral fractures. Single plate fixation is the current standard of care for humeral shaft fractures when performing open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). A role may exist for dual plating of humeral shaft fractures. This study aims to compare clinical outcomes of single versus dual-plating when performing ORIF procedures on humeral shaft fractures. Methods A retrospective study of 143 patients (81 females, 62 males; mean age 47.3) who sustained humeral shaft fractures (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopedic Trauma Association (OTA/AO) type 12A, B, and C) and received either dual or single plating via ORIF between March 2010 and May 2022. Of the 143 patients, 79 (55%) received single plating, while 64 (45%) received dual plating. To account for possible confounders, we collected data on patient characteristics, mechanism of injury, and intra-surgical variables. Primary outcome measurements compared radiographical x-ray imaging (3-months, 6-months, and 12-months), complications, and visual analog scale (VAS) score. Results There was no statistically significant difference between VAS scores, union rates, post operative radial nerve injury, infections, or hardware failure for primary surgical outcomes. Patients were allowed to bear weight as tolerated more quickly in the dual-plating group. An association was observed between the usage of dual plates and osteoporosis. Conclusion In conclusion, we found dual-plate fixation for ORIF of humerus fractures to be not statistically significantly different compared to single plate fixation. Dual-plating has satisfactory radiograph and clinical outcomes compared to conventional single-plate fixation. While we are not advocating for the routine use of dual-plating, the results of our study suggest that the use of dual-plating produces similar outcomes when compared to single-plating for ORIF of a humerus shaft fracture.

Outcomes of Non-Operative and Operative Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures: Current Concepts

Proximal Humerus Fractures (PHF) account for 5-6% of all adult fractures and have a bimodal distribution involving young patients with high-energy trauma or, more commonly, older patients with low-energy falls. Whenever possible, particularly with non- or minimally displaced fractures, PHFs can be treated non-operatively. Many recent studies have demonstrated no outcome difference between non-operative treatment and any common operative option. Operative treatment options for PHFs include percutaneous pinning, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), intramedullary nails (IMN), hemiarthroplasty (HA), and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). Generally displaced three or four-part fractures are indicated for operative fixation. However, the ProFHER (Proximal Fracture of the Humerus: Evaluation by Randomization) trial demonstrated satisfactory results may be achieved when PHFs are managed non-operatively. This review will focus on the latest evidence and outcomes following non-operative and operative treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHF).

Trends in inpatient versus outpatient upper extremity fracture surgery from 2008 to 2021 and their implications for equitable access: a retrospective cohort study.

The aim of this study is to describe trends in inpatient and outpatient upper extremity fracture surgery between 2008 and 2021, along with identifying patient factors (age, sex, race, socioeconomic status) associated with outpatient surgery. Retrospectively, 12,593 adult patients who underwent upper extremity fracture repair from 2008 to 2021 at one of five urban hospitals in the Northeastern USA were identified. Using Distressed Communities Index (DCI), patients were divided into five quintiles based on their level of socioeconomic distress. Multivariable logistic regression was performed on patients from 2008 to 2019 to identify independent factors associated with outpatient management. From 2008 to 2019, outpatient procedures saw an average increase of 31%. The largest increases in the outpatient management were seen in humerus (132%) and forearm fractures (127%). Carpal and hand surgeries had the lowest percent increase of 8.1%. Clavicle and wrist fractures were independently associated with outpatient management. Older age, male sex, higher Elixhauser comorbidity index, DCI scores in the 4th or 5th quintile, and fractures of the scapula, humerus, elbow, and forearm were associated with inpatient management. During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a decrease in outpatient procedures. There is a shift toward outpatient surgical management of upper extremity fractures from 2008 to 2021. Application of our findings can serve as an institutional guide to allocate patients to appropriate surgical settings. Moreover, physicians and institutions should be aware of the potential socioeconomic disparities and implement plans to allow for equal access to care.

Mid- to long-term outcome of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty as revision procedure for failed hemiarthroplasty after proximal humerus fracture

BackgroundInsufficient tuberosity healing is the most common reason for poor outcome after treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) using hemiarthroplasty (HA). In these cases, revision to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) can improve function and reduce pain in the short term, however, long-term results remain scarce. Aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological mid- to long-term results in patients with a revision RTSA after failed HA for PHF.MethodsIn this retrospective study all patients that received a revision to RTSA after failed fracture HA between 2006 and 2018 were included. A total of 49 shoulders in 48 patients (38 female, 10 male; mean age 82 ± 9 years) were identified in our database. A total of 20 patients (17 female, 3 male; mean age was 79 ± 9 years) were available for follow-up examination after a mean time period of approximately eight years (3–14 years) after revision surgery. At final follow-up, patients were assessed using a subjective shoulder value (SSV), range of motion (ROM), visual analogue score (VAS), the Constant Score (CS) and the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12).ResultsAt final follow-up, mean CS was 55 ± 19 (19–91), VAS averaged 3 ± 3 (0–8) and mean SSV was 61 ± 18% (18–90%). Mean SF-12 was 44 (28–57) with a mean physical component summary (PCS) of 38 (21–56) and a mean mental component summary (MCS) of 51 (29–67). On average active forward flexion (FF) was 104° (10–170°), active abduction (ABD) was 101° (50–170°), active external rotation (ER) was 19° (10–30°) and active internal rotation (IR) of the lumbosacral transition was reached. Three patients presented with a periprosthetic humeral fracture after RTSA implantation and underwent a reoperation (15%) during follow-up period.ConclusionsRevision RTSA results in promising clinical results in patients after initial failed HA after PHF. A complication and reoperation rate of 15% is tolerable in consideration of satisfactory functional and psychological outcome.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered.

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Is Superior to Plate Fixation for Displaced Proximal Humeral Fractures in the Elderly: Five-Year Follow-up of the DelPhi Randomized Controlled Trial.

Therapeutic Level I . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The epidemiology of geriatric fractures: A nationwide analysis of 1 million fractures

ObjectiveFractures among the geriatric population impose a substantial burden on healthcare systems. This study aims to investigate the incidence and distribution of fractures among geriatric individuals over seven years, analyzing changes by age and sex. The findings will inform national healthcare strategies for addressing the growing impact of geriatric fractures. Materials and methodsElectronic health records from a nationwide personal health records system were analyzed, focusing on ICD-10 codes for fractures. Recurrent codes for the same patients within three months were excluded. Patients were categorized into three age groups (65–74, 75–84, and 85+ years), and fractures were grouped anatomically. Incidence rates for specific fracture locations were calculated based on the actual population at risk annually. Incidence rates were further stratified by sex and age groups using Turkey's age- and sex-specific populations. ResultsA total of 1,004,663 geriatric fractures (66.9 % female, 33.1 % male) were identified over seven years. The overall fracture incidence among the geriatric population was 1.9 % (1910/100,000). Hip fractures were the most common (25.2 %), followed by wrist (15 %) and lumbar-pelvic fractures (11.9 %). Femur fractures were predominant in the 75–84 and 85+ age groups, while wrist fractures were more common in the 65–74 age group. Fracture incidences generally increased with age, except for ankle, foot, and toe fractures, which decreased with age for both sexes (p < 0.05). The male/female ratio was lowest for wrist, elbow, and humeral shaft fractures (1:3.2, 1:2.7, and 1:2.7, respectively). The lowest overall fracture incidence was observed in 2020 (1568/100,000), while the highest was in 2017 (2523/100,000). ConclusionWith Turkey's aging population, the socioeconomic impact of geriatric fractures is anticipated to rise. Fracture patterns and incidence vary by age and sex among geriatric individuals. These findings provide valuable insights for healthcare planning and the development of community-based preventive measures tailored to specific fracture locations and demographics.

Animated video reduces pain and anxiety during pin removal in children with supracondylar humerus fractures: a randomized controlled trial.

The aim of this study; is to determine the level of pain and anxiety experienced by pediatric patients with operated humeral supracondylar fractures during pin removal, and to investigate the effectiveness of animated video impressions. This randomized controlled study included 180 patients aged between 4 and 12years. The patients were divided into four groups: Group 1-control; Group 2-watched the introductory animation video before the procedure; Group 3-using analgesic before the procedure (ibuprofen 10mg/kg); Group 4-watched the introductory animation video and used analgesic before the procedure. To assess pain before randomization, before-during-after procedure, and at outpatient clinic controls; the Wong-Baker Pain Scale (WBS), modified CHEOPS (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale), and the child's heart rate were used. To assess anxiety; the Children's Anxiety Meter (CAM), The Short State Anxiety Inventory Scale (SAIS), and The Children's Emotion Management Scales (CEMS) were used. While a significant difference was detected between the groups in the tests performed at certain intervals (p < 0.001), no significant difference was detected between Groups 1-3 and Groups 2-4. The Modified CHEOPS and CEMS values obtained during the procedure showed significant variability between the groups (p < 0.001). Similarly, While a significant difference was detected between the groups in the WBS scores measured during the procedure (p < 0.001), it was observed that there was no significant relationship between Groups 1-3 and Groups 2-4 (p = 0.892, p = 0.820). Watching an introductory animated video before pin removal is an effective method to relieve the anxiety and pain felt in children with supracondylar fractures.

Functional Outcome of Perpendicular Plating Versus Parallel Plating In The Management Of Distal Humerus Fractures- A Comparative Study

Distal humerus fractures are quite uncommon but pose significant challenges in management due to their complex anatomy and varied fracture patterns. Surgical intervention, particularly using plate fixation, is often necessary to achieve stable fracture union and restore functional elbow mobility. This prospective comparative study aimed to analyse the outcomes of distal humeral fracture management using perpendicular and parallel plating techniques. Thirty patients with distal humeral fractures underwent osteosynthesis with either perpendicular or parallel plating between November 2020 and October 2022 at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital in Chennai. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score has been utilized to measure the following assessment parameters: pain, radiological, stiffness and clinical union, and functional elbow ability at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the surgery.Both techniques yielded satisfactory outcomes in terms of fracture union and functional recovery. However, complications and biomechanical properties differed significantly between the two methods. Parallel plating demonstrated superior stability and resistance to plastic deformation, particularly in osteoporotic bone, suggesting potential advantages in managing comminuted distal humerus fractures with an intraarticular component. This study contributes valuable insights into the optimal management strategies for distal humeral fractures and highlights the importance of considering individual patient factors and fracture characteristics when selecting the most suitable surgical approach. Additional investigation is necessary to verify these results and improve methods of treatment for this difficult kind of fracture.

Application of tuberosity suture combined with autogenous bone grafting in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for elderly patients with proximal humeral fractures

To analyze the effectiveness of tuberosity suture combined with autogenous bone grafting in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for elderly patients with proximal humerus fracture. A clinical data of 28 patients with fresh proximal humerus fractures, who met the selection criteria and admitted between June 2014 and April 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. There were 7 males and 21 females. Age ranged from 65 to 81 years, with an average of 73.8 years. The causes of injury were 21 cases of fall, 6 cases of traffic accident, and 1 case of falling from height. The time from injury to operation ranged from 5 to 20 days with an average of 9.2 days. There were 8 cases of Neer three-part fracture and 20 cases of four-part fracture. The reverse total shoulder arthroplasty was performed, and the greater and lesser tuberosities were sutered and reconstructed with autogenous bone grafting. After operation, the Constant score, American Society for Shoulder Surgery (ASES) score, and visual analogue scale (VAS) score were used to evaluate shoulder function and pain; and the active range of motion of the shoulder joint was recorded, including flexion, external rotation, and internal rotation. X-ray films were taken to observe the position of prosthesis. According to the evaluation criteria proposed by Boileau, the healing of greater tuberosity was evaluated, and the effectiveness was compared between the patients with healed and non-healed (displacement and absorption) greater tuberosity. All incisions healed by first intention after operation. All patients were followed up 24-106 months, with an average of 60.9 months. At last follow-up, the VAS score of shoulder joint ranged from 0 to 6 (mean, 1.1). The Constant score ranged from 45 to 100 (mean, 80.1). The ASES score ranged from 57 to 100 (mean, 84.7). The active range of motions of shoulder joint were 60°-160° (mean, 118°) in flexion, 0°-50° (mean, 30°) in external rotation, and corresponding to reaching the S 5-T 8 vertebral body level in internal rotation. During follow-up, no shoulder joint re-dislocation or severe shoulder instability occurred, and no revision surgery was performed. X-ray film reexamination showed that there was no loosening of the prosthesis. According to the evaluation criteria proposed by Boileau, the greater tuberosity fused in 22 cases (78.6%), displaced in 3 cases (10.7%), and absorbed in 3 cases (10.7%). The shoulder joint function and pain related evaluation indicators in the healed group were significantly better than those in the non-healed group ( P<0.05). Tuberosity suture combined with autogenous bone grafting is a relatively simple procedure that provides a reliable fixation for the anatomic recovery of greater and lesser tuberosities and is beneficial for the recovery of shoulder function in elderly patients with proximal humeral fractures.

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF K WIRE FIXATION USING LATERAL APPROACH IN CHILDREN IN SUPRACONDYLAR FRACTURE

Pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures are common elbow injuries, often requiring surgical intervention. The K-wire fixation technique, which uses the lateral approach, is widely used for treating displaced fractures, though the outcomes and complication rates vary. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the functional outcomes of K-wire fixation using the lateral approach in pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures based on Flynn’s criteria and to assess the associated complications. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted involving 60 pediatric patients aged 2–14 years with displaced supracondylar humerus fractures (Gartland Type II and III). All patients underwent K-wire fixation using the lateral approach. Postoperative follow-up was performed for six months, and functional outcomes were assessed using Flynn’s criteria, which evaluate cosmetic and functional results. Postoperative complications, including pin tract infection and wound infection, were documented. Descriptive statistics were applied, and a p-value &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of patients was 8.53 ± 4.75 years, with 63.3% male and 36.7% female. The average operative duration was 56.50 ± 8.32 minutes. Functional outcomes showed that 48 patients (80%) achieved excellent results, nine patients (15%) had good outcomes, and three patients (5%) had fair outcomes with no poor results. Complications were minimal, with one case each of pin tract infection and wound infection (1.7% each). Conclusion: K-wire fixation using the lateral approach for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures is safe and highly effective, yielding excellent functional outcomes and a low complication rate. This approach offers a reliable treatment option for displaced fractures in children, providing a high rate of success with minimal complications.

Medium-term clinical results in the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures in children: does the surgical approach impact outcomes?

BackgroundRecent literature has found a consensus in favor of conservative treatment for type II supracondylar humeral fractures (SCHF). This retrospective observational study compares the short- to medium-term functional outcomes of conservative versus surgical treatment in 31 patients with SCHF (Gartland II and III) to assess the potential superiority of one approach over the other.Materials and methodsThirty-one pediatric patients treated for SCHF—19 classified as Gartland II and 12 as Gartland III—were assessed in our department. Eight patients underwent closed reduction and cast immobilization, 22 were treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, and one underwent open reduction and internal fixation with plates. Clinical and functional data were collected during follow-up, including elbow and forearm range of motion (ROM), grip strength, carrying angle, Flynn’s criteria, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score.ResultsThe average follow-up was 3.3 years (± 1.4 years). All patients demonstrated good functional recovery. According to Flynn’s criteria, 85% and 81% of the patients achieved a satisfactory outcome in elbow flexion and carrying angle, respectively. No cases of nerve injuries were reported.Four patients developed cubitus varus in the Gartland II group, which was treated with closed reduction and casting with the initial alignment maintained (without a loss of reduction during the first week). However, compared to this group that was conservatively treated, functional and clinical outcomes were significantly better in the group with SCHF Gartland II treated with reduction and pinning (p < 0.05).ConclusionsAlthough some recent studies have demonstrated positive outcomes with conservative treatment for both Gartland IIA and IIB fractures, the short- to medium-term functional results in our study emphasize that superior outcomes were obtained with surgical treatment for Gartland II fractures when compared to those treated conservatively.Trial registration: This study was performed in line with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethics approval was obtained from our institute’s ethics committee (registry no. 3511).Level of evidence: Therapeutic level III

A humeral intracondylar fissure elevates maximum principal bone strain in the humeral condyle and lateral epicondylar crest in French Bulldogs.

To investigate whether a humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF) alters bone strain in the French Bulldog humerus, we developed a quantitative CT-based 3-D finite element (FE) model for virtual mechanical testing. We hypothesized that higher strains would be seen in the intracondylar region and lateral epicondylar crest if there was a HIF. Patient CT scans from 3 (n = 3) French Bulldogs were selected. Dog 1 had a closed distal physis and no HIF. Dog 2 had an open distal humeral physis but no HIF. Dog 3 had an open distal physis and a HIF. A 3-D FE model was built for FE analysis, and pressure was applied to the humerus over the region that contacts the radial head. The maximum principal bone strain patterns differed in each of the models. A path of strain concentration mimicking the typical pattern of a lateral condylar fracture was only found in dog 3. Maximum principal strain exceeded 1% in parts of the lateral epicondylar crest in all 3 dogs. We developed a patient-specific, quantitative CT-based 3-D FE model for virtual mechanical testing. We accepted our hypothesis. Strain concentration occurred in the intracondylar region and along the lateral epicondylar crest only when a HIF was present. The presence of a HIF in French Bulldogs elevates maximum principal bone strain in this region and alters its path in an FE model, which suggests an increased risk of a lateral humeral condylar fracture.

Ultrasound-Guided Lateral Crossed-Pin Fixation in Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

Background: Closed reduction and pinning is the gold standard in the treatment of displaced pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. With different methods of pinning available, iatrogenic nerve damage is one of the most common complications of this technique. In our study, we aimed to test the preventability of radial nerve injury in the ultrasound-guided lateral cross pinning technique. Methods: The study included 30 patients who were admitted to our clinic between September 2019 and September 2020 due to supracondylar humerus fractures and underwent closed reduction with the lateral cross pinning technique under ultrasonography. Demographic and clinical data of the patients including age, gender, fracture type and side, arm diameters of the fractured and contralateral sides, the distance between the lateral condyle and the radial nerve (LCRN), the distance between the proximal K-wire and the radial nerve (PWRN), duration of surgery, and postoperative complications of the nerve were retrieved from the patient files and recorded. Results: Fifteen (50%) of the 30 patients included in the study were girls. The patients’ mean age was 59.2±33.9 months. While 3.3% of the patients had flexion-type injuries, 30.0% had Gartland Type 2, 40.0% had Type 3, and 26.7% had Type 4 injuries. Eighteen patients (60%) had fractures in their left extremities. Type 4 fractures exhibited the biggest difference among all fracture types in comparison of the arm diameters of the fractured and contralateral sides (17.1%±5.5%; p=0.013). In the comparison of the PWRN to LCRN distance ratio, the difference was the highest in Type 2 fractures (23.3%±8.0%; p=0.027). None of the patients encountered postoperative iatrogenic radial nerve injury. Conclusion: In pediatric patients with supracondylar humerus fractures, the swelling of the extremity increases with the severity of the fracture. This situation decreases inversely with the distance of the proximal K wire from the radial nerve. The ultrasound-guided lateral cross pinning technique is a reliable method in terms of ease of application and the determination of the nerve line to create a safe zone, especially in elbow injuries with excessive swelling.