Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Ultrasound-Guided Needle Release Combined with Corticosteroid Injection for the Treatment of Supinator Syndrome
Published on: May 26, 2023
Delayed ulnar nerve palsy after open reduction and internal fixation of medial epicondylar fractures
Raymond E Anakwe1, Adam C Watts, Jane E McEachan
1The Hand and Upper Limb Service, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Queen Margaret Hospital, Dunfermline, Fife, UK. raymundus@doctors.org.uk
Insights
Delayed ulnar nerve palsies can occur after medial epicondyle fracture surgery in children. Complete surgical decompression is crucial to prevent nerve compression and ensure optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Neurology
Background:
- Medial epicondyle fractures are common in children.
- Management of the ulnar nerve during operative fixation is debated.
- Ulnar nerve complications can arise after surgical intervention.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases presented with delayed ulnar nerve palsies post-operative fixation.
- The ulnar nerve is susceptible to compression distal to the elbow.
- Incomplete surgical decompression was a potential factor.
Findings:
- Delayed ulnar nerve palsy is a recognized complication.
- Thorough surgical decompression is essential for preventing nerve injury.
- Careful surgical technique is paramount in managing these fractures.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of vigilant ulnar nerve monitoring post-operatively.
- Suggests a need for standardized surgical protocols for medial epicondyle fractures.
- Informs orthopedic surgeons about potential delayed complications and their management.
Abstract:
We present two cases of patients with delayed ulnar nerve palsies after operative fixation of displaced medial epicondyle fractures. These fractures are common childhood injuries and the optimal management for the ulnar nerve is not universally agreed. The ulnar nerve is at risk of compression distal to the elbow and where surgical decompression is selected, care must be taken to ensure that this is complete.
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Upper Limb: Ulna
Spinal Nerves: Plexus I
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...
Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Radius
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a short...

