Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures Research Articles

Failed ulnar nerve surgery due to persistent unrecognized snapping triceps from cubitus varus due to a distal humeral malunion in an adult: illustrative case.

Snapping triceps is a dynamic condition in which a portion of the medial head of the triceps dislocates over the medial epicondyle during flexion or extension. Pushed by the triceps, the ulnar nerve typically also dislocates over the medial epicondyle, causing neuropathy. Posttraumatic cubitus varus deformities resulting from pediatric supracondylar fractures have been associated with snapping triceps. This is the first case of snapping triceps associated with cubitus varus due to distal humeral malunion, which occurred in an adult. A 23-year-old man sustained a left distal humeral fracture from arm wrestling, which was treated nonoperatively, healing in a varus malunion. Within several months, he developed ulnar neuropathy and snapping at the medial elbow, which was diagnosed as a dislocating ulnar nerve and was treated with ulnar nerve transposition. He presented 8 years later with continued ulnar neuritis symptoms and snapping and was found to have snapping medial triceps. He chose nonoperative treatment. Snapping triceps, presenting as snapping at the elbow with ulnar nerve symptoms, can be incorrectly diagnosed as isolated ulnar nerve dislocation. Unrecognized snapping triceps leads to persistent symptoms after ulnar nerve transposition. The patient in this case demonstrated that an altered triceps line of pull can cause snapping triceps regardless of how the cubitus varus originated. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE24596.

Interfacility Transfer of Pediatric Supracondylar Elbow Fractures: Transfer by Ambulance Shows No Advantage in Speed of Transfer or Prevention of Complications.

The treatment of supracondylar humerus (SCH) fractures is increasingly centralized in tertiary centers. Interfacility transfer from other facilities may occur by ground ambulance or privately owned vehicle (POV). The objective of this study was to determine if interfacility transfer by POV is equivalent in transfer time and perioperative complications compared with ground ambulance. This was a single-institution, retrospective study of SCH fractures with an intact pulse transferred by POV or ground ambulance. Transfer time points were collected to determine transfer time and speed. Associated injuries of ipsilateral fracture, skin at risk, and motor nerve palsy were recorded from orthopaedic documentation at the presentation. Insurance status and the Area Deprivation Index (ADI) were used as measures of socioeconomic disparity. 676 "urgent" Type III, IV, and flexion type SCH fractures and 167 "nonurgent" Type II SCH fractures were transferred by ambulance or POV. Open reduction was similar between urgent transfers transported by ambulance or POV (10% vs. 9%, P=0.344). There was no difference in transfer time (P=0.391) or transfer speed (P=0.416) between transfer groups. POV transfers were independently associated with no skin at risk (OR 2.1; 95% CI: 1.3-3.3, P=0.003), neurovascularly intact (OR 2.5; 95% CI: 1.4-4.4, P=0.001), and patients in the low (OR 1.9; 95% CI: 1.3-2.5, P=0.041) and moderate deprivation (OR 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1-3.5, P=0.034) compared with the high deprivation group. Medicaid insurance was associated with a lower odds ratio of private transport compared with commercial insurance (OR 0.54; 95% CI: 0.38-0.76, P=<0.001). Interfacility transfer of nonemergent SCH fractures by privately owned vehicles has a similar speed of transfer and perioperative complication rate to transfer by ground ambulance. Our findings allow the triaging of nonemergent SCH fractures for potential interfacility transfer by privately owned vehicles and bring attention to disparities in interfacility transfer methods. Level III- Retrospective cohort study.

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PATTERN OF SUPRACONDYLAR FRACTURES IN PEDIATRIC AGE GROUPS AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL BKMC SWABI

Background: Supracondylar fractures are common among pediatric patients and often necessitate surgical intervention. Understanding the demographics, fracture types, and management approaches is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. This study aimed to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by investigating various epidemiological factors and treatments for supracondylar fractures in pediatric patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on pediatric patients with supracondylar fractures presenting to MTI-BKMC Swabi Pakistan, focusing on demographic data, fracture classifications, management strategies, and treatment outcomes. The study utilized data from patient records and imaging reports. Results:Among the 155 pediatric patients, thefindings indicate that the majority of supracondylar fractures occurred in patients aged 4-6 years, with a predominance of right-handed individuals. Extension-type fractures were most prevalent, and the Gartland-type distribution of these fractures closely mirrored previous research. The management of these fractures predominantly involved closed reduction and percutaneous pinning, aligning with established treatment modalities. Notably, the present study revealed a greater incidence of open fractures than was typically reported, and the influence of delayed treatment on long-term complication rates differed from that of previous studies. Conclusion:This study provides valuable insights into the demographic characteristics, fracture types, and management approaches for pediatric supracondylar fractures. While the findings are informative, the study is not without limitations, including its single-center nature and relatively small sample size. Further research encompassing larger and more diverse cohorts is warranted to enhance the generalizability and robustness of the results.

Trauma-associated vascular injuries and the vascular surgical/interventional options for vascular reconstruction

The aim of this work is to illustrate the diversity of vascular injuries in terms of vascular segments or body regions, accident mechanisms and specific patient constellations. A representative case collection was compiled based on current and relevant scientific references in PubMed, own clinical experiences, vascular surgical and novel image-guided interventional options. The diagnostics of vascular injuries in the context of trauma and fractures are based on a thorough physical examination. In addition, the hard and soft signs preferred by the Western Trauma Association should be included in the decision. Doppler ultrasonography examination is the safest and gentlest noninvasive examination procedure for a suspected vascular injury due to repeatable and comparative measurements. The stabilization of a fracture, ideally using an external fixator, should be performed before vascular reconstruction whenever possible, unless massive bleeding, hypovolemic shock or a rapidly spreading hematoma represent an immediate indication for surgery. In pediatric supracondylar fractures, avascular injury without relevant ischemia has frequently been described (pink pulseless hand). In this case, the fracture should first be reduced as the pulse often recovers. Due to the increasing availability, good technical handling and high technical success rate as well as the relatively limited interventional trauma, endovascular treatment of traumatic vascular injuries has become widely accepted. Traumatic aortic ruptures are associated with a high mortality even at the accident site. Rapid endovascular treatment using a stent prosthesis significantly increases the injured person's chances of survival. Vascular injuries in connection with fractures or multiple injuries require interdisciplinary cooperation between the specialties involved.

Incidence of complications among operative pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures using medial and lateral pins: a safe technique for percutaneous medial pin placement.

Cross-pinning of displaced pediatric supracondylar elbow fractures offers a superior stability construct. However, there is a reluctance to use this construct by closed means because of the risk of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injuries associated with percutaneous medial pin placement. This study describes a safe technique for closed reduction percutaneous with medial pin placement. This study reviewed the clinical charts of 232 pediatric patients who underwent closed reduction with cross-pinning of Gartland type II and III supracondylar fractures from 2000 to 2022 at a single institution. All surgeries were performed by the same attending surgeon at the same institution, with the same technique of medial pin placement. The inpatient and outpatient notes were used to record patient demographic information, fracture classification, and postoperative complications. A total of 232 pediatric patients [114 boys, 118 girls; mean age: 5.8 (range: 1-14) years] with Gartland type II ( n = 97) and III (n = 135) supracondylar fractures were included in the study. There were a total of seven (3.02%) postoperative complications: four (1.7%) ulnar neuropathies, two (0.86%) pin site infections, and one (0.43%) anterior interosseous nerve palsy. All documented postoperative complications were resolved by the 3-month follow-up visit. There were no complications of deep infection, malunion, or nonunion. With the proper technique, closed reduction with percutaneous medial pin fixation of pediatric supracondylar fractures is safe and produces excellent postoperative outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series.

Cubitus varus deformity following paediatric supracondylar humeral fracture remodelling predominantly in the sagittal direction: A three-dimensional analysis of eighty-six cases

PurposeThree-dimensional (3D) capacity for remodelling in cubitus varus deformity (CVD) after paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures (PSHFs) remains unelucidated. This study investigated remodelling patterns after PSHFs by examining 3D deformity distribution over time after injury.MethodsComputed tomography (CT) data of 86 patients with CVD after PSHFs were analysed. The 3D deformity angles in the sagittal, coronal, and axial directions were assessed and correlated with the duration between the age at injury and CT evaluation. For the subgroup analysis, we performed the same correlation analysis in a younger (< 8 years old) and an older group (≥ 8 years old); we categorized the duration into early (< 2 years), middle (≥ 2 to < 5 years), and late periods (≥ 5 years) and compared the deformity angles of each direction among the three groups.ResultsSagittal deformity showed a moderate correlation with the duration of deformity (r = -0.54; P < 0.001), while coronal and axial deformities showed a negligible correlation. Sagittal deformity showed moderate correlations with the duration in the younger group (r = -0.62; P < 0.001) and weak correlations in the older group (r = -0.37; P = 0.091). In the sagittal direction, the deformity angle in the early period was significantly larger than those in the mid and late periods (P < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences among the three groups in the coronal and axial directions.ConclusionSagittal deformities in CVDs are capable of remodelling, especially in the early period and at a younger age, whereas coronal and axial deformities are less likely to undergo remodelling.

Age-dependent Sagittal Plane Remodeling of Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures.

Current treatment guidelines for pediatric supracondylar fractures have not fully accounted for age-related variations in the remodeling potential. This study aimed to explore age-dependent sagittal plane remodeling in supracondylar fractures by assessing cases with residual deformities after treatment. This study included 62 patients under 16 years of age treated for supracondylar fractures at our institution from 2002 to 2022. The distance between the posterior and anterior aspects of the capitellar ossific nucleus (CON) was defined as the CON size, while the distance from the anterior humeral line to the posterior aspect of CON was termed DAP-CON. The value obtained by subtracting the DAP-CON on the unfractured side from the DAP-CON on the fractured side was divided by the CON size and multiplied by 100 and termed the displacement of CON (d-CON). The absolute value of the difference between d-CON after intervention and d-CON at the last follow-up was denoted as sagittal plane remodeling. For this patient cohort, the mean age was 5.5 years (range, 1.4 to 14.6 years), and the mean follow-up period was 30.4 months (range, 12.0 to 137.1 months). Sagittal plane remodeling was more pronounced in children younger than 5 years (group I) compared with those older (group II) ( P <0.001). In multiple regression analysis, only age at the time of injury was found to be a significant variable ( P <0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified 4.2 years as the cutoff age for predicting >33% sagittal plane remodeling, with an area under the curve of 0.975. Children below the age of 5 years exhibit sagittal plane remodeling, with a cutoff age identified at 4.2 years for achieving >33% of d-CON. This indicates that mild deformities (16.5%<d-CON ≤ 33%) can be expected to be fully remodeled before the age of 4.2 years, suggesting that the patient's age needs to be considered in the treatment guidelines. Level IV-retrospective study.

Open Exploration and Reduction of Paediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fracture with Pink, Pulseless Hand in Resource-Limited Settings.

Background: Supracondylar humerus fractures (SHFs) are common paediatric injuries, with high risk of vascular compromise. Some patients present with a 'pink, pulseless hand', caused by occlusion of brachial artery flow but with collateral circulation preserving distal perfusion. Management of these patients remains controversial, especially when resources may be limited for prolonged hospitalisation and serial monitoring by skilled staff. The aim of this study is to present the intraoperative findings, surgical procedures done and outcomes at 6 weeks for patients with paediatric supracondylar fractures with a pink pulseless hand. Methods: We retrospectively identified 13 patients who presented to a public hospital between January 2019 and May 2023 with a displaced SHF and pink, pulseless hand. All patients underwent an open reduction with an anterior approach allowing for exploration, protection and repair of neurovascular structures. Distal flow was restored in the brachial artery either with topical lidocaine application, thrombectomy or artery reconstruction. Results: Out of 13 patients, all had intact median nerves and 10 had intact arteries (69%), of which seven were interposed at the fracture site and four were in vasospasm. Of the three patients with true arterial injury (23%), two had a crushed artery and one had thrombosis of the artery. Peripheral pulses were restored within an hour of fracture open reduction in all patients. At final follow-up, a mean 6 weeks postoperatively, all patients had recovered without neurovascular deficit, compartment syndrome or Volkmann ischemic contracture. Conclusions: In resource-limited settings, we recommend performing open exploration and reduction for patients with SHFs with pink, pulseless hand. This approach prevents iatrogenic neurovascular injury during closed reduction attempts, allows for immediate repair of a brachial artery injury and avoids unnecessary hospitalisation and serial monitoring. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Postoperative Immobilization Period for Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures: The Shorter the Better?

There are now recognized standards of care published by the British and American Orthopaedic Associations which detail key areas of evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of children with displaced supracondylar humerus fractures. Although many aspects of treatment are covered in these recommendations, both the American and British Orthopaedic Associations do not recommend the exact duration of immobilization postoperatively. This study retrospectively compared outcomes of operatively managed supracondylar fractures immobilized postoperatively for short immobilization (SI) defined as 28 days or less, with long immobilization (LI) defined as more than 28 days. The outcomes measured were clinical (deformity, range of motion, and pin site infection) and radiologic (loss of position after the removal of K-wires, Baumann's angle, anterior humeral line, refracture, and signs of osteomyelitis). Demographic data were recorded to evaluate and ensure satisfactory matching of the 2 groups for analysis. The study included 193 pediatric supracondylar fractures over a 4-year period which were treated with manipulation under anesthetic and K-wire fixation. The difference in average time in plaster between the 2 groups was statistically significant (SI: n=27.5d, SD 1.23; LI: n=43.9d, SD 15.29, P =0.0001). Data for operative techniques-closed or open reduction (SI: n=66, LI: n=78, P =0.59), and crossed wires (SI: n=37, LI: n=50, P =0.57) between the two groups showed no statistical significance. There was no statistical difference between the groups for the average number of days postoperatively at which wires were taken out (SI: n=28.9d, SD 5.95, LI: n=30.1d, SD 5.57, P =0.15), number of pin site infections requiring antibiotic treatment (SI: n=3, LI: n=5, P =0.70), or children from each group who were recorded to have regained full range of motion symmetrical to their contralateral arm (SI: n=79, LI: n=99, P =0.74). Our study therefore suggests that shorter immobilization of these patients (SI group) does not yield a higher rate of complications including refracture and malunion.

Paediatric supracondylar fractures: assessment and management.

Supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus are the most common fracture around the elbow in children. A thorough initial assessment must be conducted to identify any associated neurovascular injury and carefully documented. The assessment should include a vascular examination of the radial pulse, temperature, colour and capillary refill time. A neurological examination must comment on the motor and sensory function of the radial, median and ulnar nerves. X-rays allow an evaluation of the fracture location and type, and the degree of displacement. Immobilisation in plaster is the gold standard treatment for paediatric supracondylar fracture of the humerus where the degree of displacement is within acceptable parameters. Casting should be followed by orthogonal radiographs and a repeat neurovascular assessment of the limb. Oral analgesia and safety netting information should be provided on discharge, and the child reviewed in a fracture clinic within 1 week of the injury. The British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma and Orthopaedics for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children are useful for junior orthopaedic and emergency medicine clinicians to refer to when dealing with these injuries.

Comparison of outcomes in buried versus exposed Kirschner wire for treatment of paediatric supracondylar humerus fracture

Introduction: The treatment options for paediatric supracondylar distal humerus fractures include close reduction and above elbow slab application, close reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation, and open reduction and internal fixation using K-wire. For displaced supracondylar fracture closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation, under C-arm guidance, is the current gold standard treatment option. Leaving the K-wire exposed or buried under the skin is decided as per the discretion and convenience of the operating surgeon. Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the outcomes of buried and exposed K-wire for treatment of paediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. Methodology: This study is a prospective, comparative, observational study conducted among the paediatric patients visiting Birat medical college teaching hospital OPD/ emergency department with supracondylar humerus fracture. The sample size was calculated to be 90 (45 in each group) on the basis of convenience sampling and samples were collected using systematic random sampling technique. After data collection, all reports are entered in a predetermined Performa and analysed using SPSS version 21. Results: The overall complications rate was 20%. In the exposed K-wire group, 6 patients (13.33%) had surgical site infection at 4 weeks. Among them, 5 patients (11.11%) had superficial infection and 1 patient (2.22%) had deep infection. In the buried K wire group, only 2 patients (4.44%) had skin perforation and superficial infection. None of the patients had deep infection. There were 2 patients (4.4%) with hyper granulation tissue formation in exposed K wire group which were associated with superficial infection. There were 8 patients (17.8%) with skin irritation/ K wire prominence but without K wire perforation in the buried K wire group which was statistically significant (p value 0.006). Conclusion: There is no significant difference between the exposed K wire group and buried K wire group.

The effects of postoperative malrotation alignment on outcomes of Gartland type III/IV paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures treated by close reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation

PurposeIn this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of postoperative malrotation alignment on the outcomes of Gartland type III/IV paediatric supracondylar humeral fracture (SCHF) treated by close reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation.MethodsBetween January 2014 and December 2021, 295 Gartland type III/IV paediatric SCHFs treated by close reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation were selected for this retrospective study. The demographic, clinical and radiographic parameters of all cases were collected. The lateral rotation percentage (LRP) was measured on X-rays to evaluate postoperative malrotation alignment of the fracture. All cases were categorized into 4 groups according to LRP: LRP ≤ 10% (210, 71.2%), 10% < LRP ≤ 20% (41, 13.9%), 20% < LRP ≤ 30% (26, 8.8%) and LRP > 30% (18, 6.1%). The carrying angle, ranges of multidirectional motions, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Flynn’s Standard Score (FSS) of the injured elbow were assessed 6 months postoperation and compared among different groups. ROC analysis based on LRP and the excellent/good rate of FSS was performed to determine the acceptable maximum degree of postoperative malrotation alignment.ResultsThere was no difference in the demographic characteristics (age, sex, injured side and fracture type), postoperative Baumann angle, carrying angle or range of forearm rotation among the 4 groups (P > 0.05). The operation time and time from operation to K-wire removal were longer in the 20% < LRP ≤ 30% and LRP > 30% groups than in the LRP < 10% and 10% < LRP ≤ 20% groups (P < 0.001). The shaft condylar angle, range of elbow flexion, MEPS and FSS of the injured elbow 6 months postoperatively were lower in the 20% < LRP ≤ 30% and LRP > 30% groups than in the LRP < 10% and 10% < LRP ≤ 20% groups (P < 0.001). ROC analysis based on LRP and the excellent/good rate of FSS showed an area under the curve of 0.959 (95% CI 0.936–0.983), with a cutoff value of 26.5%, sensitivity of 95.3% and specificity of 90.1%.ConclusionA certain degree of residual malrotation alignment deformity of the SCHF may reduce the shaft condylar angle and extend the time from operation to removing the K-wire and affect elbow function, especially the range of elbow flexion. The acceptable maximum degree of residual malrotation deformity expressed as the LRP value was 26.5%.

Beyond Tradition: "Figure of 8" Casting for Gartland Type 1 and Type 2A Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures of Humerus: Video Technique.

In the treatment of paediatric supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHFs), Gartland Type 1 fractures are traditionally managed with in situ above elbow casting, while Type 2A fractures are treated with closed reduction and above elbow casting. This technical note introduces a novel "figure of 8" cast technique for Type I and 2A fractures. The technique aims to maintain fracture reduction while reducing the risk of compartment syndrome by avoiding placement of cast material in the anterior elbow crease. This innovative casting method has the potential to enhance the management of these fractures in children, providing a alternative to conventional approaches. "Figure of 8" cast technique presents a unique, easy-to-implement, and effective approach for treating Type 1 and 2A SCHFs in children, maintaining fracture reduction in 100-110° elbow flexion and minimizing the risk of compartment syndrome.

Comparison of antegrade and retrograde cross pin fixation in the surgical treatment of pediatric supracondylar femur fractures: A biomechanical study

PurposeThe aim of this study is to compare biomechanical stability of Kirschner wires (K-wires) sent with antegrade and retrograde technique in the fixation of pediatric supracondylar femur fractures. Materials and MethodsA transverse fracture model was created two centimeters above the physis in 24 synthetic bone models suitable for the pediatric femur bone structure. The models were randomly divided into two groups as 12 bones each. In the first group (Group 1), 12 bone fracture models were retrogradely fixed with two cross K-wires. In the second group (Group 2), the fracture was fixed antegradely. In Group 2, both wire ends were allowed to protrude three millimeters from the femoral condyles. The stability of the groups was tested biomechanically by exposing them to varus and extension forces. The forces corresponding to 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm and 4 mm displacement and failure loads were calculated in two groups. ResultsAccording to the test results regarding displacements and failure loads, the retrograde group was found to be significantly stronger than the antegrade group against varus loads (p < 0.05). When the groups were compared in terms of extension strength, the results of the two groups were similar and there was no statistical difference between them (p > 0.05). ConclusionRetrograde cross K-wires fixation provides a more stable fixation against varus forces. This is important to prevent varus deformity, which is a clinically less tolerable deformity. However, considering that full-weight mobilization of patients is not allowed after surgery in pediatric supracondylar femur fractures, the surgeon should consider that K-wires can also be sent antegrade to decrease the risk of septic arthritis.

Anterior approach versus posterior approach for the open reduction of displaced pediatric supracondylar humerus fracture

BackgroundThis study's objective was to compare the results and adverse outcomes of the anterior approach and posterior approach in patients with a type 3 Gartland pediatric supracondylar fracture who failed close treatment and indicated open reduction. Methodsin this retrospective study patients with Gartland type 3 fracture who failed close reduction and required open reduction were enrolled in the study. Eligible patients underwent open reduction via anterior and posterior triceps sparing approaches. Patients were followed up 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgery. Study variables included age, sex, Bauman's angle, pin site infection, nerve injury, osteonecrosis, and elbow arc of motion. ResultsThe study included a total of 83 patients. Surgery was performed on 49 patients using the posterior technique and 34 patients using the anterior approach. The mean age of patients was 6.78 ± 1.40 years. The mean age and the relative frequency of sex didn't differ significantly between study groups (P > 0.05). Two-way repeated measures ANOVA test showed that there was a statistically significant difference in elbow arc of motion in the anterior approach in comparison with the posterior approach, however, this increase was not clinically significant. In terms of adverse events including pin site infection, nerve injury, osteonecrosis, and cubitus varus, there was no statistically significant difference between the two approaches. ConclusionThere was no clinically significant difference in elbow arc of motion and adverse events between the anterior approach and the posterior approach. Therefore, surgeons should choose the approach with which they are more familiar and comfortable.

Effect of Supination vs Pronation in Non-operative Treatment of Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture Humerus

Objective: to compare modes of the forearm (supination and pronation) in terms of elbow deformity after closed reduction and casting of supracondylar fracture humerus. Methodology: Prospective study was conducted at orthopedic surgery department of Nishtar Hospital Multan from January 2023 to February 2024. One hundred patients were included in study 45 treated in pronation position and 55 in supination position. Supracondylar fracture was managed with closed reduction and immobilization procedure. Outcomes were assessed through clinical and radiographic examination. Follow up was done till 8 months. SPSS version 23 was used for data analysis and p vale ≤0.05 was considered as significant. Results: In pronation, the type of fracture (I &amp; III) was noted as n=32 (71.1%) and n=13 (28.9%), respectively. While in supination, type of fracture (I &amp; III) was noted as n=40 (72.7%) and n=15 (27.3%), respectively. Conclusion: there is a definite difference between two groups of management supination and pronation in the closed treatment of supracondylar humerus fracture regarding elbow malunion deformity.

Beneficial Perioperative Aspects Favor the Use of Percutaneous Crossed Pinning over Antegrade Nailing in Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures-A Retrospective Comparative Study.

(1) Background: Displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in pediatric patients can be treated by either antegrade nailing (AN) or percutaneous crossed pinning (PCP). The aim of this study was to compare the intra- and perioperative management, complications and outcome of AN and PCP. (2) Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 271 individuals (median age 5 years, IQR 4-7 years) who underwent AN (n = 173) or PCP (n = 98). Patient history was analyzed for incidence of nerve injuries, postoperative treatment, postoperative malrotation, time of hospital stay, time to implant removal and revision rate. Operative procedures were investigated for duration and radiation exposure. (3) Results: PCP was associated with a significantly lower radiation exposure (dose area product: PCP mean 20.1 cGycm2 vs. AN mean 34.7 cGycm2, p < 0.001; fluoroscopy time: PCP mean 1.1 min, range 0.1-8.1 min, vs. AN mean 1.5 min, range 0.1-7.1 min, p < 0.001), duration of surgery (PCP mean 32.2 min vs. AN mean 48.3 min, p < 0.001) and time to implant removal (PCP mean 37 days vs. AN mean 113 days, p < 0.001). Cast removal was performed earlier in the AN group (PCP mean 30.2 days vs. AN mean 20.4 days, p < 0.001) and there were fewer iatrogenic nerve lesions (PCP: 24% vs. AN: 8%, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: In the investigated study population, the analyzed parameters seem to favor the use of PCP. The advantages of AN should be weighed against its drawbacks. For special indications, AN remains a relevant technique in supracondylar fracture treatment, and surgeons should be familiar with this procedure.

Treatment of pediatric femur supracondylar fractures: comparison of K-wire fixation versus plate-screw fixation.

This study aims to compare the clinical and radiological results of patients who underwent plate-screw fixation and K-wire fixation in supracondylar femur fractures in the pediatric population. Patients aged 5-14 years suffering from supracondylar femoral fractures who underwent K-wire and plate-screw fixation were included in the study. Of all patients, follow-up period, age, fracture union time, gender, leg length discrepancy, and Knee Society Score (KSS) data were analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups; fixation with plate (Group A) and fixation with K-wires (Group B). Forty-two patients participated in the study. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, and follow-up time ( P > 0.05). When comparing the KSS results, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups ( P = 0.612). A statistically significant difference was detected between the two groups regarding union time ( P = 0.01). When both groups were analyzed, no significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of functional results. Good results can be obtained in both plate-screw and K-wires in pediatric supracondylar femur fractures.

Children’s orthopaedics

The April 2023 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup360 looks at: Can you treat type IIA supracondylar humerus fractures conservatively?; Bone bruising and anterior cruciate ligament injury in paediatrics; Participation and motor abilities after treatment with the Ponseti method; Does fellowship training help with paediatric supracondylar fractures?; Supracondylar elbow fracture management (Supra Man): a national trainee collaborative evaluation of practice; Magnetically controlled growing rods in early-onset scoliosis; Weightbearing restrictions and weight gain in children with Perthes’ disease?; Injuries and child abuse increase during the pandemic over 12,942 emergency admissions.

Correlation of Fall Height, Fracture Severity and Clinical Outcome in Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures—A Retrospective Analysis with an Observation Period of 20 Years

The most common cause leading to supracondylar humerus fractures in children is falling onto an outstretched arm. A correlation between fall height and fracture severity may be assumed but has not yet been described. The aim of this study was to show that fracture severity increases with fall height. Furthermore, the correlation between fracture severity and outcome was examined. A total of 971 children with supracondylar humerus fractures between January 2000 and December 2019 were included in this study. The correlations between fall height and fracture severity and between fracture severity and outcome were assessed. Increasing fall height correlates with fracture severity (p < 0.001; r = 0.24). Furthermore, the incidence of complications increases with fracture severity and a correlation was present accordingly (p < 0.001; r = 0.28). A total of 30 (3.1%) patients showed limitations in range of motion and/or persistent neurologic deficits at the latest follow-up. Type I fractures rarely lead to subsequent limitations. The correlation between increasing fall height and fracture severity was significant. Furthermore, children with type III and IV supracondylar fractures are more likely to develop complications or restrictions in movement than children with type I and II fractures. Hence, the initial fall height may be an indirect indicator of a more or less favorable outcome.